Should I go to a lawyer, or do my will online?

It seems that some individuals opt for lawyers even for straightforward Wills. However, with the availability of online Will services, the question arises:

• Do I still need to consult a lawyer if I do my Will online?
• Which option is superior, to go to a law firm or get my Will done online?
• What factors should I consider as to where I get my Will done?

Well, we at WillCraft will address all of these concerns. Read on to find out more!

Lawyers cannot give you a Legally Binding Will

Many people seek lawyers to draft their Wills in hopes of obtaining a ‘Legally Binding Will’, assuming it will ensure their wishes are upheld. However, the term ‘Legally Binding Will’ is misleading.

There is no such thing as a ‘Legally Binding Will’.

Unlike contracts, Wills serve a different purpose and cannot bind parties. Wills are legal documents that define the terms for the distribution of your real or personal estate, including instructions on which family member or individual will receive an inheritance. They cannot enforce obligations or be used to compel action.However, they can help outline the clear distribution of your assets so as to prevent any potential legal battles between surviving family members upon your demise. Wills also assist in the care of your minor children by allowing you to appoint testamentary guardians.What individuals seek are ‘Legally Valid Wills’.

Lawyers can give you a Legally Valid Will.

Lawyers can give you a ‘Legally Valid Will’ - but you may be surprised as to what this really means.

Essentially, a ‘Legally Valid Will’ is a Will that has been declared to be valid by the Courts.

Once you pass away, your appointed executor, who is tasked with distributing your assets according to your Will, must initiate the probate process in Court. This process not only grants your executor the necessary authority but also validates your Will.** **

**For a Will to be considered valid, the court assesses specific criteria: **

1. You were of sound mind and over 21 years old ¹ when drafting the Will.
2. You were aware of and agreed to the contents of the Will.
3. The Will adheres to all legal formalities outlined in the Wills Act Section 6 ².

Only after the Court confirms the Will’s validity can it be legally recognised. It’s also worth noting that whether or not a lawyer drafts the Will doesn’t affect its validity.

What happens if I do not have a Will in the event of my death?

Without a Will in place, the distribution of your estate will be governed by the rules outlined in the Singapore Intestate Succession Act (ISA). This may lead to your assets being distributed in a manner that may not align with your wishes or intentions.

Creating a legally valid Will helps to clearly outline your wishes regarding the distribution of your assets and belongings to your chosen beneficiaries after your passing.

With a Will, you can ensure that your estate is distributed according to your preferences, providing peace of mind that your loved ones will be taken care of in a manner you desire.

[Please note that for those with assets abroad, it may be necessary to write a separate Will in accordance with the country’s current rules in order to ensure their proper distribution.]

Learn more about the implications of not having a Will and how the Intestate Succession Act comes into play in our detailed article here.

Lawyers can draft a formally valid Will, ensuring it meets all legal requirements. This type of Will complies with the legal formalities outlined in Section 6 of the Wills Act ³ (as mentioned above), giving you peace of mind that your wishes are properly documented and legally sound.

Lawyers are expensive, how do I afford that?

While it’s true that lawyers can be costly, here’s a little-known fact: You don’t necessarily need a lawyer to create a legally valid Will.

With online Will making services like WillCraft, you can enjoy the same benefits as seeking a lawyer, but at a more affordable price and with added convenience. Best of all, you can complete the process from the comfort of your own home. So why pay more when you can get a legally valid Will online, cheaper, faster, and with the same advantages as traditional legal services?

There are a few online legal providers we know out there. Such services offer some benefits compared to lawyers:

1. They do not require you to spend time searching for a lawyer, and having an initial meeting with the lawyer
2. They do not require you to go to the lawyers office, everything can be done from the comfort of your own home
3. They allow you to complete your Will immediately, no waiting time or downtime.

However, one main downside is that you don’t get the guidance and explanation that the lawyer will give you. You don’t get the peace of mind knowing that a lawyer has drafted your Will in accordance with the legal requirements, thus ensuring that your Will is a ‘legally valid Will’.

This is where WillCraft really stands out.

• WillCraft’s interface is guided. WillCraft guides you through every step of the way - it explains to you everything you need to know when drafting a Will, including all the terms that you need to know when you first start to draft a Will. Say for example, explanations that a lawyer would give you, we break it down into terms that a layman would understand.
• WillCraft’s Wills are drafted by Singapore qualified lawyers. In fact, WillCraft is founded by a lawyer! So you can have the peace of mind that your Will meets all the legal requirements in order for it to be considered a legally valid Will’.
• WillCraft sends out an execution letter to let you know exactly how to treat your Will after you receive it.

With WillCraft, you can easily make a Will in under 30 minutes!

WillCraft is Singapore’s First Online Will Platform. Where drafting your Will is made simple yet comprehensive. Our guided interface ensures that every step is crystal clear, offering explanations on key terms and concepts in layman’s language.

But, I Still Want a Lawyer

We understand that sometimes you want to have a lawyer to look through everything to make sure everything is alright.

We at WillCraft bridge this gap seamlessly.

When you draft your Will with WillCraft, our platform allows you the option for a lawyer’s review and two witnesses, at just a small additional fee of S$79 ⁴.

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WillCraft is a new-age solution to Will drafting, providing you with the flexibility to complete the process in the comfort of your own home. Whether you choose to finalise your Will independently or opt for a lawyer’s review for added peace of mind, WillCraft has you covered at a fraction of the cost of traditional law firms. What’s more, you can explore our user-friendly interface for free before making any commitments!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best online Will service in Singapore?

The best online Will service in Singapore is WillCraft. WillCraft offers a convenient and user-friendly platform designed to help individuals easily customise their own Will. With the involvement of a team of experienced lawyers who review and witness the Will, WillCraft ensures that your final document meets all legal requirements and reflects your unique needs and preferences. With its comprehensive range of services and expert guidance, WillCraft stands out as a top choice for online Will-making in Singapore.

Can I write a Will without going to a lawyer in Singapore?

Yes, you can write a Will without going to a lawyer in Singapore. It is possible to create a simple Will using templates or online Will-writing services. WillCraft provides just that with our user-friendly platform, making writing your own Will not only convenient, but cost-effective and quicker, all within the comfort of your own home.

Are online Wills better or worse than going to the lawyers?

Online Wills can be a convenient and cost-effective option for creating a Will, especially for those with straightforward estates and simple wishes. However, they may not always offer the same level of customisation or legal expertise as working with a lawyer. While online Wills can be suitable for some individuals, seeking advice from a lawyer can provide assurance that your Will accurately reflects your intentions and complies with relevant laws. WillCraft bridges this gap seamlessly; our user-friendly platform allows you to customise your Will to your unique preferences and needs. As our parent company is a law firm itself, we can also provide the same level of legal expertise, all at a fraction of what going to a traditional law firm will cost.