THE Crosby office of solicitors Morecrofts is warning about huge pitfalls and potential disasters for people using online will services.

The firm is hearing of increasing problems concerning cheap or free will services automated online. The firm has concerns over both the validity of these wills and the failure to consider tax implications.

The UK-wide National Association of Solicitors for the Elderly (SFE), which specialises in acting for older and vulnerable people, has also expressed concerns about online wills.

Morecrofts’ Helen Dring, who is a member of SFE, said: “These online wills look attractive on the surface, because they are cheap or sometimes even free, but they are fraught with danger.

“For example, many online systems don’t ask for financial details so they can’t check inheritance tax and other legal implications, which mean that beneficiaries under an online will could end up paying a high price.”

Helen advises clients to meet face-to-face.

She added: “As a responsible lawyer, I want to meet clients to ensure they understand what they want to do and that they have the mental capacity to sign a Will.

“From the meeting, I can also make sure clients are not being forced or bullied into making a will, and I can carry out an identity check to ensure the person is who they claim to be.”