wHY diy wILLS cOST mORE tHAN thEY sAVE

When it comes to planning your estate, it can be tempting to look for a quick and cost-effective solution. DIY Will kits and Post Office Wills often promise a simple way to get the job done, usually at a fraction of the cost of seeing a lawyer.

But while they might seem appealing up front, the reality is that a poorly drafted Will can create confusion, conflict, and unnecessary expense and stress for your loved ones, often costing far more in the long run than you saved at the start.

The Hidden Risks of DIY Wills

Even small mistakes in a DIY Will can lead to significant legal and emotional consequences later on. Here are some of the most common issues that arise when people rely on quick-fix options such as DIY Wills:

1. Risk of Invalidity
A Will must meet strict legal requirements to be valid in Victoria. If even a small detail is missed, such as how it’s signed or witnessed, the document could be invalid. This means your estate may instead be distributed under intestacy laws, which may not reflect your wishes.

2. Unclear or Incomplete Wording
DIY Wills use generic templates that can’t account for your specific family or financial situation. Ambiguous or incomplete wording often leads to disputes, leaving executors or the courts to interpret your intentions, potentially resulting in delays, stress, and costly litigation.

3. Overlooked Assets or Circumstances
Life is rarely “one size fits all.” Superannuation, jointly owned assets, blended families, businesses, trusts, companies or overseas assets all require special consideration. DIY Wills rarely cover these properly, leaving important parts of your estate unaddressed or vulnerable.

4. Strain on Family Relationships
When a Will is unclear, family members are more likely to disagree. Even minor disputes can escalate quickly, damaging relationships at an already difficult time. The emotional toll can be just as significant as the financial cost.

The Value of a Professionally Drafted Will
Working with an experienced estate planning lawyer ensures that:

• Your Will is legally valid and binding under Victorian law.

• Your unique circumstances, such as your individual family structure, your assets and liabilities and your superannuation are fully considered.

• Complex issues like guardianship of minor children, blended families, non-estate assets, specific gifts, and testamentary trusts are clearly addressed.

• Your executors have clear guidance, making the administration of your estate smoother and less stressful.

A properly drafted Will gives you peace of mind knowing your wishes will be respected and your loved ones will be looked after, without unnecessary expense, confusion, or conflict.

In Summary
DIY Wills may appear cost-effective at first glance, but they often leave behind legal and financial problems that far outweigh the initial savings. In contrast, investing in a professionally prepared Will provides certainty, protects your family, and can ultimately save thousands of dollars in legal costs, as well as emotional distress for those you care about most.

We’re Here for You
At Wills and Succession Lawyers, we specialise in estate planning for families across Geelong and Victoria. We take time to understand each client’s different circumstances and ensure your Will and Estate Planning are clear, valid and tailored to your specific needs.

Contact us today to get started on securing your family’s future.