DIY last Will and testament, is it a good idea?
Irina Bartnik, Notary • January 14, 2020
It’s empowering to do something yourself. There is a satisfying sense of accomplishment that comes with the successful completion of a project. I also love cutting costs by doing things on my own, and often learn new skills in the process.
But even an avid DIY fan like me knows that there are some things that I simply can’t do by myself. I also know the value of working with a professional.
Some of them are obvious. Like open-heart surgery or building an aircraft.
But others aren’t so straightforward, like legal documents. Even as an experienced BC Notary, I know there are certain legal documents that I can’t prepare on my own. I accept that and defer to other experts when I need these documents.
This is why I’m concerned about a growing trend: people wanting to DIY their Wills (often using the internet as their only source of information).
Don’t get me wrong, I understand the appeal: cutting costs, avoiding the hassle of having to see a professional, the satisfaction of learning a new skill. These reasons are valid, but trust me when I say, it’s just not worth it.
In the best of cases, DIY Wills are often ineffective, and seriously hinder the chances that your wishes are followed.
In the worst of cases, they are deemed invalid by the courts and leave your loved ones scrambling to figure out what to do with your estate.
Please contact my office if you need to have a Will prepared. You will be happy you did!
Irina Bartnik Notary Public
#105 6758 188th Street
Surrey, BC (Clayton Area)
V4N-6K2
TEL (604) 575-7494
FAX (604)-579-0259
www.ibnotary.com
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