-- Creating your own will or trust may seem like a smart way to save money, but it can end up costing far more in the long run—both financially and emotionally—for your loved ones, warns John Billings, a leading estate planning attorney.
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“Many people believe skipping an attorney will save them money,” he said. “But DIY estate planning often overlooks critical legal details. These oversights can create confusion, disputes, and costly delays that can last for years.”
The founder of The Law Office of John L. Billings, PLLC explains that estate planning is more than filling out forms—it’s about protecting assets, safeguarding loved ones, and ensuring your wishes are carried out exactly as intended. “Even small errors, like failing to properly designate beneficiaries or update a will after a major life event, can cause major headaches for executors and heirs,” he added.
Without professional guidance, executors may struggle to identify all assets, manage real estate sales, pay creditors, and distribute property according to your wishes. “A DIY will can create unnecessary probate delays, increase costs, and even lead to litigation if family members disagree on how the estate should be handled,” Billings said.
Failing to have a proper will or trust can leave the state in control of your estate. “If there’s no executor named, or if the documents are invalid, the state steps in,” he noted. “That means added fees, extended timelines, and often, family disputes that could have been avoided.”
Billings also emphasized the emotional toll of DIY estate planning. “Your loved ones are already grieving. Making them navigate unclear, incomplete, or invalid estate plans only adds to their stress. Professional estate planning provides clarity, continuity, and peace of mind for your family”.
Trusts, wills, and other estate planning tools can also provide financial advantages, like minimizing estate taxes, ensuring charitable contributions are honored, or protecting assets for future generations. “DIY approaches rarely account for these benefits, leaving potential opportunities—and money—on the table,” he explained.
Billings concluded: “Estate planning isn’t just about avoiding probate; it’s about leaving a clear legacy. Working with an experienced attorney ensures your estate is properly structured, your wishes are followed, and your family is spared unnecessary financial and emotional hardship.”
Source: http://RecommendedExperts.biz
Contact Info:
Name: John Lee Billings
Email: Send Email
Organization: The Law Office of John L. Billings, PLLC
Address: 4617 Chambliss Avenue, Knoxville, TN, 37919, USA
Phone: (865) 297-3015
Website: https://jblawtn.com
Release ID: 89180569
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