Certainly not recommend, however, some people choose this option to save the legal fees. But it is being “penny wise but pound foolish”. After all how many wills have you written? And will you use the correct terms or meet the form requirements? Will a Judge accept it as legal and in compliance with Louisiana law?
Do a search online and you can quickly find advertisements for websites and software that will help you prepare your own will and other legal documents. Most will include a disclaimer “Not Valid in Louisiana”.
It is more than a form it about your family. Estate planning is as much for your loved ones as it is for yourself. After all, it is your loved ones who will have to deal with the consequences of your decisions and clean up any “mess” that you have left behind.
Wills and estate administration are governed by state law and every state has its differences. If you use a national website or software, it still must be tailored to your particular state. You are putting a lot of trust and faith in the company you are using that they are compliant with the laws in Louisiana. If that company is mistaken–your loved ones will suffer the consequences and you will not be here to correct the mistake.
I have seen plenty of do-it-yourself wills that are problematic and resulted in costly litigation. Some were not executed in accordance with Louisiana law, others had mistakes which resulted in the person’s desires not being carried out as he/she wished and in some cases, others were silent on important decisions and issues or fail to take advantage of tax savings strategies.
No software or website that I have seen is capable of giving tailored legal advice that can help clients save money in the long term and help provide family harmony and peace of mind. The old adage “you get what you pay for” still holds true. Call Michele Blanchard for free Consultation to discuss drafting a Last Will and Testament or Revocable Trust. 985-641-4010