The Dangers of Online Wills

Whether we like it or not, technology is playing a bigger part in our daily lives. But how far do we want it to go? That is the question facing will writers.

We may be comfortable nowadays shopping on the internet but are we happy to see a doctor via our laptops or mobile phones? Perhaps some people are.

But preparing a will remotely does raise some important issues. It is vital that the document is prepared in such way that it can’t be challenged in court. Without face-to-face contact, can a will writer be completely satisfied that the testator is of sound mind, memory and understanding and that no undue influence is being applied?

The industry is currently having a debate about the validity of online wills and the legal liability and negligence issues of the firms involved. It is a fact, though, that preparing wills from a distance puts the onus more on the testator to supply all of the correct information. Would it be a dumbed-down service?

We are probably a little way from a text message acting as a will – thank heavens, some may say. Avoid faceless will writing by booking an appointment with Heritage Will Writing on 02380 879243.