Sometimes you need an expert. I’ve tried my hand at YouTube-ing home improvement solutions or Wikipedia-ing answers, but there are some areas where you’d be completely foolish not to go to an expert. Maybe it means hiring an accountant or an insurance agent. One of those experts is an attorney.

This week on PTPTV, I talk to James Bell. James is a criminal defense attorney (ahem, this goes without saying but, DEFINITELY get an expert if you’re facing criminal charges) and we talk about the pros and cons of using a certain website (herein referred to as “BeagleDoom”.com) for your will and trust planning rather than hiring an expert. When it comes down to it, it’s just more costly to take the risk of having a shoddy will than it is to come up with the cash for an attorney’s fees. You know I never sugarcoat financial consequences so I won’t do it here. Do you really want the fate of your children and all of your assets to rely on a document created on the internet for $65?  James does make a disclaimer for this: if you are in a situation where you absolutely cannot afford to meet with a lawyer, a “BeagleDoom”.com will is better than having nothing at all.

I loved this interview with James because he’s not just an expert, he’s a fun expert. It may very well be the most entertaining and informative conversation I’ve had about death and “post-retirement” planning. I also ask James some probing questions I’ve had about legal ethics, the perception of greedy lawyers, his tone when he shouts, “I OBJECT!”, and whether or not he’d defend a guilty client.

Check out our conversation below and make a move today to meet with an expert and plan for your financial future.

Follow James Bell on Twitter or check out his website.

Pete the Planner®

Peter Dunn a.k.a. Pete the Planner® is an award-winning financial mind and a former comedian. He’s a USA TODAY columnist, author of ten books, and is the host of the popular radio show and podcast, The Pete the Planner Show. Pete is considered one of the foremost experts on financial wellness in the world, but he’s just as likely to talk your ear off about bass fishing.