Why Not DIY
The real choice is rarely software versus an attorney.
Most Arizona families are choosing between three options: do it yourself software, a non attorney provider who presents themselves as qualified to handle estate planning, or a licensed attorney. Here is a factual look at what each one can and cannot do.
Under Arizona Supreme Court rules, a certified legal document preparer may give general legal information but may not give legal advice about your rights, options or strategy. That is the line between a document and a plan.
Option one
DIY software platforms
- Generic documents not tailored to Arizona law
- No legal advice, just form filling
- Improper execution invalidates documents
- Missing probate avoidance structure
- Poor beneficiary coordination
- No attorney accountability
- Hidden risks families discover too late
Option two
Non attorney providers
- Document preparers, notary services, and online paralegal services may prepare or notarize paperwork, but they cannot legally advise you on which structure fits your family
- Sales presentations that package a trust with an annuity or insurance product
- They are not bound by attorney ethical duties or State Bar accountability
- Commission on financial products can sit alongside the recommendation for a trust
- No privileged attorney client relationship protecting your conversations
- If the plan fails, no licensed professional is accountable for the outcome
Option three
A licensed Arizona attorney
The convenience of online with the accountability of a real Arizona attorney.
You meet with a licensed attorney, your documents are drafted for Arizona, and the plan is reviewed before you ever sign. Advice is part of the service, not something carved out of the terms. There are no products being sold alongside your plan.
See How It WorksDIY Software
- Drafted for Arizona law
- Legal advice on which structure fits your family
- Reviewed by a licensed attorney
- Probate avoidance built in
- Beneficiary and funding guidance
- Bound by State Bar ethical duties
- Accountable if something goes wrong
- No products sold alongside your plan
- Modern online experience
- Flat, predictable price
Non Attorney Providers
- Drafted for Arizona law
- Legal advice on which structure fits your family
- Reviewed by a licensed attorney
- Probate avoidance built in
- Beneficiary and funding guidance
- Bound by State Bar ethical duties
- Accountable if something goes wrong
- No products sold alongside your plan
- Modern online experience
- Flat, predictable price
Online Trust Attorney
- Drafted for Arizona law
- Legal advice on which structure fits your family
- Reviewed by a licensed attorney
- Probate avoidance built in
- Beneficiary and funding guidance
- Bound by State Bar ethical duties
- Accountable if something goes wrong
- No products sold alongside your plan
- Modern online experience
- Flat, predictable price
This comparison describes categories of providers in general terms. It is educational and is not a statement about any specific company or individual.