The short answer that is for majority of estate planning tools such as putting together a will, is that you certainly don’t need a lawyer. However, you should certainly hire an attorney if you have a fair amount of assets, multiple intended beneficiaries, and want to ensure that your will has been drafted in accordance with applicable state and federal laws.
Most Americans in their 50s and 60s today don’t have a will at all and this could expose beneficiaries to the unnecessary process of probate. Individuals within generation X, some of whom are in their early 50s already, are extremely negligent when it comes to putting together a will.
Up to 64% of individuals in this age category don’t have a will at all. Regardless of your age, it is beneficial to have a will that has been properly drafted by an experienced estate planning lawyer.
A lawyer can also tell you other strategies and documents that can be used to help accomplish your estate planning goals. Only half of adults, according to a study conducted by Ameriprise Financial, have a plan in place to leave assets or money behind to a loved one. An attorney can help you figure out the best way to accomplish your individual goals.