Computer Will? ... or ... Lawyer Will?

[KaraKW]

We've put it off long enough. My DH and I are ready to sit down and have our will drawn up.

We're on the fence about how to do it --- should we use one of those computer will programs or should we see a lawyer?

Thoughts? Experiences?

Thanks!

 

[klj27]

We went to a lawyer and had a typical will drawn up. This was 7 years ago and we were only charged $100 per will. This included two meetings with the attorney, writing them, witnessing them, and storing them.

 

[aprilgail2]

I used a lawyer...it was only 150.00 and I made sure to designate guardianship for my duaghter in there too!

 

[newholidayx2]

DH & I just had our wills done up in Aug.
$100 ea of us for the will, $100 ea of us for power of attorney, $300 for DS guardianship

 

[sweet angel]

I would use a lawyer unless it's a really really really simple will. Even if it's simple, the forms may not have the proper witnessing, notarizing, etc. that varies by state.

 

[summerrluvv]

I would go through a Lawyer. It's not that expensive for the peace of mind you get knowing you did it the correct way. At the firm I work at we charge $150.

 

[Saffron]

No advice, I just wanted to say, "Hey Kara!"

 

[Dan Murphy]

It is inexpensive, Kara, a lawyer is best.

And wow, what a sight for sore eyes!!!! You still have that Irish temper? Hope all is well with you both!!

 

[thelittlemermaid]

Anyone know anything about wills that include special needs kids.

DH and I really need to get a will done, but with DD having Down Syndrome we have read alot about certain things she can get after turning 18 and don't want to mess anything up for her by leaving her something in our will that causes her to loose something she needs.

Plus we are not sure if a regular lawyer can do a will like this or if we need to find a special lawyer.

 

[swilphil]

My brother-in-law has Downs' Syndrome. I do believe my mother-in-law gave another family member some sort of power of attorney concerning the brother-in-law. Any lawyer who is able to do wills should be able to find this out for you, but it may mean you pay a little more. You could also talk to other parents of Downs children.

 

[Barb D]

I did mine on the computer because DH keeps stalling and I was flying a lot at the time. I had it notarized, and it's stored in my house. Before I had major surgery I made another push to get a "real" one done, but DH continued to stall...so I told him that if I died HE was the one who would have to deal with the consequences if it wasn't good enough!

That said, I do still want to get to a lawyer at some point.

 

[KaraKW]

Thanks for all of the feedback! My DH and I have decided to go with a "lawyer-will". It's worth the peace of mind.

Hey, Saffron!!! How's it going?

Hi, to you, too, Dan! And, yep, my Irish temper lives on!!!

 

[WebmasterAlex]

I think kids would be the deciding factor for me. If it was a simple married with no kid everything to spouse will I would probably go computer. As soon as kids are involved it's too much of a risk to do it on your own

 

[stacie_d]

A computer version of a will may not be valid in some states. If you want to be sure it is, I would go to an attorney.