In today’s digital world, you can do almost anything online — shop, bank, even write your will. At first glance, an online will looks quick, convenient, and affordable.
Here’s the question most people ask, ‘Do I need a lawyer to make a will?’
When it comes to protecting your children, your home, and your future, the “cheapest” option can often be the most costly in the long run.
As a parent in your 30s, you’ve probably worked hard to buy your family home, build some savings, and create a life for your kids. The real question is: should you trust an online will to safeguard it all, or do you need the expertise of a lawyer?
Let’s break down the pros, cons, and what’s truly at stake.
Why People Choose Online Wills
Online wills are growing in popularity, especially for busy parents who want to tick “estate planning” off their to-do list in one evening.
The main benefits are:
- Convenience – You can complete one from your couch, often in less than an hour.
- Affordability – Prices start under $200, compared to $500–$2,000 for a lawyer.
- Simplicity – For young, single people with no kids and one or two assets, it may cover the basics.
When an online will might be enough:
- You’re single, renting, with no dependents.
- You only have a small bank account and personal belongings to pass on.
- You don’t mind if things default to intestacy laws if something goes wrong.
But here’s the reality: most parents don’t fit this category.
Owning a home, raising kids, and managing finances all add layers of complexity that online templates can’t address.
The Hidden Risks of Online Wills
While online wills look appealing, they often come with pitfalls that only surface after you’re gone — leaving your loved ones to deal with the consequences.
1. They Don’t Account for Complex Families
Blended families, stepchildren, or even just naming guardians for your kids can create legal grey areas. A template can’t tailor advice to your unique situation.
2. They’re Easy to Get Wrong
Something as simple as signing in front of the wrong witnesses can make your will invalid. If the wording is vague, the courts may interpret your wishes differently than you intended.
3. They Don’t Cover Your Whole Estate
Superannuation, insurance, digital assets, and trusts often need separate planning. An online will might not mention them at all, leaving significant gaps.
4. They Can Be Challenged More Easily
Ambiguities or errors in a DIY will give grounds for disputes. Family disagreements can lead to costly court cases, draining the very inheritance you wanted to protect.
So the answer to your question, ‘Do I need a lawyer to make a will?’ will depend on your personal circumstances.
Example:
A mum named Sarah used an online will to name her sister as guardian for her kids. But the template didn’t specify the age at which the children should be to inherit her house. When she passed away, her 18-year-old son legally inherited it — and sold it, against what Sarah would have wanted. A lawyer would have advised adding an inheritance age clause.
The Advantages of Using a Lawyer
Writing a will with a solicitor costs more upfront — but it buys certainty, protection, and peace of mind.
Here’s why:
1. Tailored Advice for Your Family
A lawyer can spot issues you might not consider, such as:
- Who becomes guardian if your first choice can’t serve
- How to provide for children with additional needs
- Whether a trust is better than a lump-sum inheritance
- Protecting assets in case of divorce or remarriage
2. Watertight Wording
Legal language matters. A single vague sentence can change how your will is interpreted. Lawyers draft wills with precise wording that holds up in court.
3. Comprehensive Estate Planning
Unlike templates, a lawyer looks beyond the will itself. They’ll help with:
- Binding death benefit nominations for superannuation
- Setting up enduring powers of attorney
- Covering digital assets and online accounts
- Planning for tax implications and minimising fees
4. Less Stress for Your Loved Ones
The most significant gift you give your family isn’t money — it’s clarity. With a lawyer-prepared will, your executor knows exactly what to do, avoiding confusion, delays, or disputes.
Example:
Mark and Emily, both in their 30s with two young kids, worked with a lawyer to write their wills. Their solicitor added a calamity clause (covering what happens if the whole family passes together), appointed backup guardians, and ensured their super and insurance aligned with the will. The process cost $1,500, but it protected assets worth nearly $900,000.
The Cost Comparison: Online vs Lawyer
At first glance, the difference in cost seems huge:
- Online Will: $50–$200
- Lawyer-Drafted Will: $500–$2,000
But here’s the bigger picture:
- Disputes over DIY wills can cost families $10,000–$50,000 in legal fees.
- A lawyer ensures your will is valid, minimising the chance of disputes.
- For most parents, your will protects hundreds of thousands (if not millions) in property and assets. The investment is tiny compared to what’s at stake.
Which Option Is Right for You?
An Online Will may work if:
- You’re young, single, and renting.
- You have no dependents and minimal assets.
- You want a simple stopgap until your life becomes more complex.
A lawyer is best if:
- You own property or a business.
- You have children (especially if you need to appoint guardians).
- You’re in a blended family.
- You want to set conditions on inheritance (e.g., age limits, trusts).
- You want comprehensive estate planning that covers super, digital assets, and powers of attorney.
Don’t Gamble With Your Family’s Future
An online will can seem like the fast, cheap solution — but when it comes to protecting your children and your home, shortcuts rarely pay off. The small upfront savings can lead to significant costs, disputes, and heartbreak for your loved ones.
A lawyer-prepared will, on the other hand, gives you certainty. It ensures your wishes are clear, your kids are cared for, and your family isn’t left dealing with unnecessary stress.
When your family’s security is on the line, the question isn’t “Can I afford a lawyer?” — it’s “Can I afford not to?”
If you’re asking yourself, ‘Do I need a lawyer to make a will?’ start a conversation with one of our lawyers who can give you peace of mind that your kids and home will always be protected.
Call us today to discuss on (02) 6562 3300.
Learn more about the importance of having a well set out will here: Making A Will
This is the fourth article in our 4-part series on ‘How To Write A Will’.
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