04/10/2026
Do-It-Yourself Estate Planning Risks and Pitfalls
I have had many conversations lately, with potential clients, colleagues, and friends about the risks of do-it-yourself internet wills and trusts. In today's digital age, now with AI, the internet has revolutionized various aspects of our lives, making tasks convenient and accessible. Online will/trusts sites have gained popularity with advertised convenience and 'cost-effectiveness' of creating a will or trust online. However, it is crucial to be aware of the potential dangers and risk on relying soley on these platforms.
Lets explore what benefits you receive (and risks you avoid) by working personally with an experienced Estate Planning Attorney.
Legal Expertise
One of the primary concerns with do-it-yourself sites is the lack of legal expertise for a personalized estate plan. This can lead to documents containing generalized text which can be open to misinterpretation or ambiguity. Estate planning involves intricate legal concepts and State specific regulations. Sisson Law Firm offers personalized advice and knowledge to ensure you frame your estate plan for your unique circumstances.
Customization
Each person, family, blended family, mixed family....are are so uniquely beautiful and special, I have found that a one-size-fits-all approach just doesn't work. Online platforms often offer standardized templates that cannot be molded to fit complex family dynamics or custom circumstances. Working with an attorney allows for the customization, ensuring that your wishes are accurately reflected, your plan covers all necessary provisions, and accounts for any special considerations.
Proper Ex*****on
In order to be accepted by the Court, a will must be property executed according to each States probate code. If the required steps are not taken, the will could be ruled invalid or be vulnerable to a challenge. Sisson Law Firm, LLC ensures that each and every Will, Trust and Power of Attorney are executed properly and follows State specific requirements.
Security and Privacy
Online will services require the submission of personal and sensitive information, making them susceptible to cyber threats and data breaches. Further, information shared on these sites is not protected by the attorney-client privilege, nor the work-product doctrine, which provides that certain information collected or prepared in anticipation of litigation is not discoverable. In other words, the information you provide these websites can be used against you in court. When working with an attorney, you are afforded the attorney-client privilege as well as the work-product doctrine security and privacy protections.
Money Saving
These sites advertise "money and time saving" opportunities. However, as a probate attorney, I have seen over and over again where do-it-yourself wills and trusts end up costing the estate tens of thousand of dollars in attorney fees where the will was not proved up properly, executed properly, or didn't contain State specific requirements. You may save money up front and while you are alive....but your estate will likely pay out far more during the probate process.
The founder and owner of Sisson Law Firm, LLC, Carrie Sisson, is licensed and experienced in handling all measures of estate planning in Wyoming, Colorado and Montana. We would love to meet or speak with you to determine how to secure your future properly and affordably.
Call Sisson Law Firm, LLC (307) 683-6011
Email [email protected]
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