Why Online Wills Can Put Your Legacy at Risk: The Case for Seeing a Lawyer

Written By Eric Navea

Thinking About an Online Will? Read This First

In today’s digital world, online wills promise convenience and affordability. Search terms like “online will service”, “DIY will”, and “free will template” are growing in popularity. But when it comes to protecting your family and legacy, cheap isn’t always cheerful.

Before clicking submit on a budget-friendly online will, here’s what you need to know—and why working with a qualified estate planning lawyer is still the best way forward.

⚠️ What Can Go Wrong With an Online Will?

Online platforms often promote speed and simplicity, but there’s a lot they don’t tell you—until it’s too late.

1) Not Updated with the Law

Succession laws and testamentary rules change regularly. Many online tools are not kept up to date with the latest court decisions or legislative changes. It’s hard to know when their templates were last reviewed by an actual lawyer.

2) Not Always Legally Valid

Writing your wishes is only one part of the process. There are strict legal requirements for a will to be valid. If your DIY will doesn’t meet them, it can be declared invalid, leaving your loved ones in legal limbo.

3) One-Size-Fits-All Templates

Online wills may work for people with one beneficiary and a couple of assets. But what about:

  • Blended families?

  • Children from previous relationships?

  • Business interests?

  • Property across multiple states?

  • Debt planning?

Every estate is different. Templates simply can’t capture this complexity.

4) Missed Assets or Beneficiaries

A surprising number of DIY wills forget:

  • Backup beneficiaries

  • Superannuation

  • Digital assets

  • Tax implications

These omissions can lead to probate issues, family disputes, and unexpected taxes.

5) Increased Risk of Disputes

Ambiguous wording or technical errors in DIY wills often result in court challenges. These legal battles drain the estate and put families under enormous stress.

Why Seeing a Lawyer Still Matters

Searches for “will lawyer near me” or “estate planning lawyer Sydney” aren’t going anywhere. Here’s why:

Personalised Legal Advice

A good lawyer will sit down with you and ask:

  • Is a will the right legal tool?

  • Have all assets been properly identified?

  • Are there tax implications we need to plan for?

  • Are the beneficiaries properly covered?

No online form can do this.

Full Legal Compliance

Lawyers ensure your will is properly witnessed, signed, and structured to meet all legal requirements. This significantly reduces the risk of it being overturned or challenged.

Long-Term Strategy

Lawyers don’t just draft wills—they plan estates. That includes:

  • Trust structures

  • Tax minimisation

  • Asset protection

  • Guardianship provisions for children

Reduced Risk of Disputes

A well-drafted, lawyer-prepared will is less likely to be challenged in court. That’s peace of mind for you—and protection for your family.

Still Tempted by an Online Will? Ask Yourself:

  • Am I confident this is 100% legal in NSW?

  • What if I misunderstood one of the questions?

  • Will my family be protected if there’s a challenge?

If there’s even a shadow of doubt, that’s your answer.

Protect Your Legacy the Right Way

Online will tools may be suitable for the simplest of estates—but most people need more than that. A properly drafted will ensures:

  • Your wishes are respected

  • Your family is protected

  • Your assets are distributed the right way

Don’t leave your legacy to chance. Speak with an experienced wills and estates lawyer today.

Ready to Protect Your Legacy?

Don’t take chances with your last wishes. Speak with an experienced wills and estates lawyer today.

Eric Navea Legal offers tailored, legally sound estate planning services. Book a free consultation and protect what matters most.

Mobile: 0401 937 269
Email: office@ericnavealegal.com.au

Eric Navea