Introduction
Writing a will can feel like something only wealthy people or retirees need to worry about. In reality, everyone, no matter their age, income, or family situation, benefits from having a clear, legally valid will.
With so many DIY kits and online tools available, it’s natural to ask: Do I really need a lawyer for a simple will?
At Pathfinder Law, we meet with clients across Abbotsford and Langley who want peace of mind without overcomplicating the process. Here’s what you need to know before deciding how to write your will.
What a Will Actually Does
A will is a legal document that explains what should happen after you pass away. It allows you to:
- Choose who will receive your property and assets
- Name someone to care for your minor children
- Appoint an executor to carry out your wishes
- Leave instructions for personal items, charitable donations, or funeral arrangements
Without a will, the government decides how your estate is divided. This may not reflect your wishes, and it can cause confusion or conflict among family members.
What Makes a Will “Simple”?
When people say they want a simple will, they usually mean:
- They have a modest estate (a house, some savings, and a few personal belongings)
- They want to leave everything to a spouse, children, or a small group of people
- There are no complicated family dynamics (like estranged children, stepfamilies, or second marriages)
- They don’t expect anyone to challenge the will
If this describes your situation, a basic will might be enough. But the key word is might.
Risks of Doing It Yourself
There are many DIY will kits, templates, and online services out there. While they may seem convenient, they come with real risks, especially if you’re not familiar with BC estate law.
Common problems include:
- Not meeting the legal signing and witnessing requirements
- Failing to include essential clauses
- Unclear wording that leads to disputes
- Omitting important assets
- Naming someone legally unable to serve as executor or guardian
In British Columbia, a will must meet specific requirements under the Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA). If it doesn’t, it could be invalid, or worse, partially valid and open to challenge.
Even small mistakes in wording can lead to big problems, including court costs, delays, and family disagreements.
When You Should Hire a Lawyer
If your situation involves any of the following, it’s a good idea to speak with a lawyer:
- You own a business
- You’ve been divorced or remarried
- You have a blended family or estranged relatives
- You want to leave someone out of your will
- You have property in more than one province or country
- You’re concerned about family conflict
- You want to set up trusts for children or dependents
- You’re unsure who should act as executor or guardian
Even if you think your estate is straightforward, a brief consultation can reveal issues you hadn’t considered.
What a Lawyer Actually Does
A lawyer who helps with wills and estates does more than fill out a form. They’ll take the time to understand your personal and financial situation and provide advice that matches your needs.
Here’s what you can expect:
- A review of your assets and any existing documents
- Questions about your family and relationships
- Advice about tax implications or probate issues
- Help choosing an executor and backup options
- A will that’s properly written, signed, and witnessed
- A clear explanation of what it all means, in plain language
At Pathfinder Law, we focus on making this process approachable. Our goal isn’t to make it more complicated, it’s to make it stronger.
What Happens Without a Will?
If you die without a will in BC, you are considered to have died intestate. That means the WESA rules will decide who inherits what.
This may lead to outcomes you didn’t want. For example:
- A spouse may have to share the estate with children
- Stepchildren might not receive anything
- The court will appoint someone to manage your estate
- The government may hold funds for minor children until they turn 19
Not having a will can also delay the estate process and create stress for loved ones during an already difficult time.
What About Online Wills?
Online services can be a good starting point, especially if you’re not ready to meet with a lawyer. But they’re best viewed as a temporary solution, not a final one.
These services don’t offer personal advice, and they may not account for the specific laws and risks in BC. If you choose an online will, it’s still wise to have a lawyer review it to make sure everything is clear and enforceable.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Lawyer’s Help?
Many people are surprised to learn that legal wills are more affordable than expected, especially when compared to the cost of fixing a poorly drafted one later.
At Pathfinder Law, we offer straightforward pricing and clear explanations. In some cases, we also bundle will preparation with other estate planning tools like powers of attorney or representation agreements.
Final Thoughts
Writing a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones. While DIY options may work in some cases, even a “simple” will can benefit from a lawyer’s guidance.
At Pathfinder Law, we help individuals and families throughout Abbotsford, Langley, and beyond create wills that truly reflect their wishes. Our team makes the process easy to understand, with no pressure and no legal jargon.
If you’re ready to get started, or want help reviewing an existing will, contact us today for a free 20-minute consultation.
