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Trust is Essential in Estate Planning: Why Online Services Aren't Enough

Posted by James Burns | Oct 03, 2023 | 0 Comments

Estate planning is a complex process that can be difficult to navigate without professional guidance. While there are many online estate document preparation services available, these services can pose a number of risks, including the failure to establish trust or a relationship with the client. If trust is a bond between two people how can that take place in a bland and sterile dashboard of an online data collection which also cannot ask various intimate questions about your goals?

Trust

Trust is essential in any professional relationship, and it is especially important in estate planning. Clients need to be able to trust that their attorney or estate planner will understand their needs and create a plan that meets their specific goals.

Online estate document preparation services often do not have the time or resources to develop a deep understanding of their clients' needs. As a result, they may generate generic estate plans that do not adequately address the client's unique situation.

In addition, online estate document preparation services often rely on automated forms and templates. This can lead to errors and omissions in the estate plan.

Relationship

A strong relationship between the client and the estate planner is essential for effective estate planning. The estate planner should be able to answer the client's questions and address their concerns. They should also be able to provide ongoing guidance and support as the client's circumstances change.

Online estate document preparation services typically do not offer the same level of personal attention as a traditional estate planner. They may not be able to answer the client's questions in a timely manner, and they may not be available to provide ongoing support.

Other risks

In addition to the lack of trust and relationship, there are a number of other risks associated with using online estate document preparation services. These risks include:

  • Errors and omissions: As mentioned above, online estate document preparation services often rely on automated forms and templates. This can lead to errors and omissions in the estate plan.
  • Complexity: Estate planning can be complex, and even the most sophisticated online estate document preparation services may not be able to address all of the client's needs.
  • Lack of flexibility: Online estate document preparation services typically offer a limited number of options. This may not allow the client to create an estate plan that meets their specific needs.
  • Cost: Online estate document preparation services may seem like a bargain at first, but they can be expensive in the long run. If the client's estate plan is not properly drafted, it could lead to expensive litigation after the client's death.

Conclusion

Estate planning is a serious matter, and it is important to work with a qualified estate planner. Online estate document preparation services may seem like a convenient and affordable option, but they pose a number of risks. Clients should carefully consider these risks before using an online estate document preparation service.

Here are some additional tips for choosing an estate planner:

  • Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or other professionals and examine reviews online.
  • Make sure the estate planner is experienced and knowledgeable in estate planning law.
  • Ask about the estate planner's fees and services and don't let price rule your decision.
  • Make sure you feel comfortable with the estate planner and that you can trust them to handle your estate planning needs.

Here are some of the benefits of working with a qualified estate planner:

  • Your estate plan will be tailored to your specific needs and goals.
  • You will have access to ongoing guidance and support from your estate planner.
  • You can be confident that your estate plan will be carried out according to your wishes after your death.

Investing the time and money to work with a qualified estate planner is one of the best things you can do for your loved ones. A well-drafted estate plan can help to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and that your loved ones are taken care of after you are gone.

About the Author

James Burns

James Burns, Esq. is a seasoned attorney specializing in estate planning, asset protection, and tax law. Known for his expertise in Private Placement Life Insurance (PPLI), James helps high-net-worth individuals protect their wealth and achieve tax efficiency, including pre-immigration planning. With over 20 years of legal experience, he offers tailored solutions for estate planning and corporate transactions. James is also a published author and sought-after speaker, recognized for his deep knowledge and strategic approach to wealth preservation.

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