Your Situation Assessment
Answer these first Is your situation straightforward or complex?
Do you have significant assets or a modest estate?
Do you have a blended family (stepchildren, multiple marriages)?
Do you own a business or have business partners?
Do you have assets in multiple states or countries?
Do you have family members with special needs?
Do you have any unusual wishes that might be challenged?
Is anyone likely to contest your will?
Complexity Indicators
You likely need professional advice if You own a business or partnership shares
You have assets held in trusts or company structures
You have a blended family with potential competing claims
You want to exclude close family members
You have assets overseas
You have a family member who needs special provision (disability, addiction)
You're in a de facto relationship and it's complicated
You expect someone will challenge your will
Your total estate exceeds several million dollars
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Option 1: DIY Will Kit
Pros and cons PRO: Cheapest option ($20-50)
PRO: Complete privacy
PRO: Done immediately
CON: No guidance through the process
CON: Easy to make mistakes that invalidate the will
CON: No one checks your work
CON: Witness requirements often misunderstood
CON: High rate of problems at probate
Option 2: Online Will Service
Pros and cons PRO: Affordable ($100-400)
PRO: Guided process with prompts and explanations
PRO: Convenient — complete from home
PRO: Templates reviewed by lawyers
PRO: Help resources available
CON: Less personalised than seeing a solicitor
CON: May not suit complex situations
CON: You need to assess whether your situation fits
Option 3: Solicitor
Pros and cons PRO: Personalised advice for your situation
PRO: Can handle any complexity
PRO: Professional assessment of risks
PRO: Can advise on estate planning beyond the will
PRO: Someone to contact if problems arise
CON: Most expensive ($500-2000+)
CON: Need appointments — less convenient
CON: Quality varies significantly between firms
CON: May try to sell additional services
Option 4: Trustee Company Will
Pros and cons PRO: Often free if they're appointed as executor
PRO: Professional executor service included
PRO: No burden on family members
CON: Executor fees come from your estate later
CON: Less personal service for your beneficiaries
CON: May be slow and bureaucratic
CON: Family loses control of the process
Questions to Ask Any Provider
What's included in the price?
What happens if I need to make changes later?
Are the templates or documents reviewed by qualified lawyers?
What support is available if I get stuck?
How do I properly sign and witness the will?
Where should I store the completed will?
What if my situation changes?
Red Flags — Avoid Providers That:
Offer free wills with strings attached (usually want executor appointment)
Pressure you to decide immediately
Can't explain their pricing clearly
Have no clear complaints or support process
Won't let you see samples of their documents
Have poor or no reviews
Claim one will fits all situations
Cost vs Risk Assessment
What could a mistake cost your family? (delays, legal fees, disputes)
What's the value of your estate?
How much stress and complexity would an invalid will create?
Is saving $200 worth the risk of getting it wrong?
For Online Services, Check:
Is the service Australian-based and compliant with Australian law?
Are templates specific to your state?
Is there clear information about when you should seek legal advice instead?
What support is available (phone, chat, email)?
Can you review and update your will later?
Is there a satisfaction guarantee?
How is your data protected?
Making Your Decision
Have you honestly assessed your complexity level?
Does the option you're considering match your needs?
Have you compared at least 2-3 options?
Are you comfortable with the support available?
Does the price represent fair value for what's included?