In my opinion, yes. Also, it needs to be an experienced estate planning and probate attorney, not just any attorney. Mistakes in DIY planning are usually not discovered until it is too late. There are a lot of factors that non-attorneys (including notaries, legal assistants, and other people who have “experience” with Wills/Trusts/probate) and attorneys who focus on another area of law do not consider when preparing estate planning documents. Poor wording or poorly thought-out plans can do a lot of damage. Examples include: loss of government benefits, creditors or government taking estate assets, relationship-ending conflict between family members, avoidable probate proceedings, young adults squandering their entire inheritance, and lawsuits.
Category:
Estate Planning
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About the Author: Amber Ramsey
AVVO Legal Profile
I focus on probate and estate planning almost exclusively because I have a passion fo helping people through the legal process following death or incapacity. These situations are difficult enough without the legal process being made more complicated by poor drafting or preparation. It is my mission to protect my client's interests (legal, financial and personal) and hold their hands through the legal process. I base my practice on honesty, good communication and hard work.
I currently take cases in Bexar County, Guadalupe County and Comal County. I also accept cases in Frio County, Atascosa County, Kendall County, Medina County, Wilson County, Goliad County, Kerr County, Nueces County, and other Texas Counties on a case-by-case basis.
I am originally from Chicago, Illinois, but have also lived in Ohio, North Carolina, California and South Dakota. I enjoy spending time with my family, travel and volunteering in the San Antonio community. I decided to make San Antonio my permanent home in 2010 and I do not miss icy roads or below-zero temperatures one bit.
I volunteer with the Junior League of San Antonio Community Gardens program and am on the board of directors for Crime Stoppers of San Antonio and Animal Defense League of Texas.