There are many estate planning products on the market today that represent to consumers that legal documents such as a will may be prepared on a home computer without the help of an attorney.  In some cases, these products may work.  However, many of these products are not state specific, and therefore, do not meet the specific requirements for the state in which the testator resides and, ultimately, where the will is offered for probate.  (Even though the form may be "valid in all 50 states," it could fail to include provisions required by Texas law for low-cost, efficient administration of your estate.)  The best way to go about doing a will is to contact an attorney in your area to assist you.  Prior to meeting with an estate planning attorney, you should think about how you would like to leave your property at your death, and who you would like to designate to handle your estate after your death.  Click here for more information about the estate planning process and preparing to meet with an estate planning attorney.

Last updated on January 6, 2011 by Glenn Karisch