Do I Need a Lawyer

utcourts.gov, Aug 31, 2005

Although it is possible to make a perfectly valid and effective will by yourself, most people should consider hiring an attorney to draft their will. In addition to insuring that the will is valid, attorneys are frequently able to assist clients with the following:

Improving their estate plan by suggesting alternatives or considerations that might otherwise be overlooked.
Avoiding problems caused by unclear language. Reducing or eliminating challenges on the grounds of undue influence, fraud, or forgery. Furthermore, the services of an attorney to prepare a simple will are not expensive. Where tax planning considerations, a need for detailed instructions, or special problems are not present, a simple will can be obtained for a fee of approximately $150.00 to $300.00, which is a small price to pay for the additional security of professional assistance. Where tax planning considerations, a need for detailed instructions or special problems do exist, the cost will be higher, but so will the benefits. Tax savings alone can frequently pay all the attorney fees.
Note: An attorney should be consulted where:

The gross value of your estate, including life insurance, employer death benefits, and anything you might inherit from your spouse or others, exceeds $600,000. Where one or more of your heirs may have trouble managing their affairs due to age, infirmity, improvidence, lack of training, or simply lack of desire. 

Where there are businesses or partnerships involved.
Where there might be substantial conflict among the heirs.
Where there are any other unusual or bothersome circumstances.