Where to Get Your Will Done: Online vs Lawyer vs DIY

Writing a will is one of the most important things you can do to make sure your loved ones are looked after when you pass away. These days, you have three main avenues for getting it sorted: using an online service, hiring a lawyer, or going it alone with a DIY kit. Each option has its pros and cons, so think about how complex your estate is, how much guidance you need and what you’re happy to spend. At the end of the day, having a valid will no matter how you create it is far better than leaving nothing at all. 

1. Online Will Services 

Pros: 

• Convenience: Draft your will anywhere, anytime, at your own pace. 

• Affordable: Generally cheaper than seeing a professional. 

• Guided Process: Step-by-step questionnaires and ready-made templates take the guesswork out of it. 

Cons: 

• Complexity Limits: Not ideal if you’ve got a blended family, trusts, business interests or overseas assets. 

• State Law Gaps: Some platforms don’t fully cover the nitty-gritty of your state’s rules, which can risk invalidity. 

• No Personal Advice: You won’t get tailored legal tips to suit your unique situation. 

Best For: 
Anyone with a straightforward estate who wants a quick, wallet-friendly solution and doesn’t need in-depth legal input. 

2. Hiring a Lawyer or Estate Planner 

Pros: 

• Expert Guidance: A qualified lawyer or adviser can explain the fine print, help you minimise tax, set up trusts and manage guardianships. 

• Fully Customised: Your will is drafted specifically for your assets, family dynamics and future goals. 

• Rock-Solid Legal Compliance: You’ll have peace of mind that every “i” is dotted and every “t” is crossed under both state and federal laws. 

Cons: 

• Higher Cost: Expect to pay from several hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on complexity. 

• Longer Turnaround: Scheduling meetings and going through revisions can take more time than an online service. 

Best For: 
People with high-value or complicated estates, blended families, business ownership, or anyone who values ongoing legal support. 

3. DIY Will Kits 

Pros: 

• Lowest Cost: Often free or very cheap—just pay for the template or kit. 

• Full Control: You write exactly what you want, without any outside input. 

Cons: 

• Risk of Mistakes: Miss a witness signature or forget a clause, and the whole will could be invalid. 

• No Professional Guidance: You might overlook important issues, leading to disputes later on. 

• Not Suited to Complexity: Blended families, trusts, charities or business assets can easily get muddled. 

Best For: 
Those with very simple estates think small bank accounts and personal belongings who are comfortable following strict legal formalities on their own. 

Making Your Choice 

1. Assess Complexity: Do you have trusts, business holdings or a blended family? If so, lean towards a lawyer or high-quality online service. 

2. Consider Budget: Online services strike a good balance between cost and support. Lawyers offer the most protection but at a premium. DIY is cheapest, but carries the greatest risk. 

3. Weigh Your Comfort Level: If you’re confident handling legal forms and have a tiny estate, DIY might suffice. Otherwise, expert help pays for itself in peace of mind. 

No matter which route you pick, the important thing is to get your will done so your wishes are clear and your loved ones are protected.