Most people don't need a lawyer to make their will. Here's why.

If you're thinking about making your own will, you may feel a little uneasy about the process. After all, a will is an important legal document -- shouldn't you seek a lawyer's help?

The answer depends on your situation. If you're like most people, you won't need a lawyer. With good self-help materials, it's not difficult to make a will that takes care of basic concerns, such as leaving a home, investments, a small business and personal items to your loved ones. And if you have young children, you can use your will to name a guardian to take care of them, as well as someone to manage any property they inherit.

Making a will rarely involves complicated legal rules. In most states, if you're married, your spouse has the right to claim a certain amount of your property after your death. If you leave your spouse at least half of your property, this won't be an issue.

You need to sign and acknowledge your will in front of two witnesses. But beyond these basic requirements, you may parcel out your property however you like, and you don't have to use fancy language to do it. In short, if you know what you own, whom you care about, and you take a little time to use self-help resources, you should be fine.