Will Awareness Day was officially launched on August 16 at Mittagong RSL with a panel discussion on “How much does a home-made will really cost?” Local solicitors as well as wills and estates accredited specialists were a feature of the discussion.  

The launch will be followed by more than 40, free, community seminars from local solicitors at locations across NSW on or after August 16. 

 Law Society of NSW president John Dobson said many people thought making a will was a simple exercise, and something they could do themselves. However sometimes people’s affairs were often more complex than they realised.  

“Opting for an apparently ‘cost-effective’ do-it-yourself will can result in delay, uncertainty and substantial legal costs to the willmaker’s family and estate,” Mr Dobson said.  

Mr Dobson said that seeking legal advice was important as it was essential to have a well-prepared will.  

“Dying without a will in place or having a badly prepared one can cause major stress and expense of those left behind, and is an all too common cause of serious rifts between family members,” he said.   

For further information about these community seminars and the Will Awareness Day launch events go to: www.lawsociety.

com.au/willawarenessday