Do you have a will? If not, you should consider creating one. A will is a document that dictates how your property should be distributed after your death. It can also be used to appoint a guardian for your children. Wills are essential documents, and it’s necessary to ensure they are executed correctly. Here are five interesting facts about wills.
Anyone Can Make A Will
A will is a legal document that allows you to specify how you would like your assets to be distributed after death. Many think that only the wealthy need to worry about drafting a will, but this is not the case. Anyone can benefit from having a will, regardless of the size of their estate.
Experts say without a will, your assets will be distributed according to the laws of your state, which may not be in line with your wishes. In addition, if you have minor children, a will allows you to appoint a guardian to care for them if something happens to you. The process of drafting a will may seem daunting, but it is well worth the peace of mind it can provide.
You Can Change Your Will At Any Time
Once you have a will, it is not set in stone. You can change your will anytime, as long as you are of sound mind and body. If your circumstances change, such as getting married or having children, you may want to update your will to reflect your new situation.
It’s also important to review your will periodically to ensure it meets your needs. For example, if you have moved to a different state, you may need to update your will to ensure it complies with your new state’s laws.
You Don’t Need A Lawyer To Create A Will
Attorneys claim that it is always best to consult with a lawyer when drafting a will, but it is not strictly necessary. There are many online resources available that can help you create a legally-binding will.
If you decide to go this route, be sure to do your research and choose a reputable service. You should also ensure that your will is properly witnessed and signed, which can affect its validity.
A Will Is Only Effective After You Die
One of the most common misconceptions about wills is that they go into effect as soon as they are signed. In reality, a will only become effective after you die. Until then, it can be changed or revoked at any time. If you change your mind about how you want your assets to be distributed, you can simply update your will.
If You Don’t Have A Will, The State Will Decide How Your Assets Are Distributed
If you die without a will, your assets will be distributed according to the laws of your state. This is known as dying “intestate.”
Attorneys say that dying intestate can be costly and time-consuming, as your assets will need to go through probate court. In addition, if you have minor children, the court will appoint a guardian for them.
It is best to draft a will as soon as possible to avoid this situation. Doing so will give you peace of mind knowing that your wishes will be fulfilled after your death.
How To Make A Will?
Making a will is a relatively simple process. You can either draft one yourself or hire a lawyer to do it for you.
If you decide to draft a will yourself, many online resources are available to help you. Choose a reputable service and ensure your will is properly witnessed and signed.
Once your will is complete, keep it in a safe place where your loved ones can easily access it. It is also essential to update your will periodically to reflect any changes in your circumstances.
While making a will may seem daunting, ensuring that your wishes are carried out after your death is crucial. By taking the time to create a will now, you can save your loved ones a lot of heartache and hassle in the future.
How Can An Attorney Help?
An attorney can help you draft a will and advise you on the best way to distribute your assets. They can also help you navigate probate and ensure your will is executed correctly.
If you have minor children, an attorney can also help you appoint a guardian for them.
While it is not strictly necessary to hire an attorney to create a will, doing so can save you a lot of time and hassle in the future.
Final Thoughts
A will is a legal document that allows you to control how your assets will be distributed after death. Anyone can make a will, and it is best to do so as soon as possible. If you don’t have a will, your assets will be distributed according to the laws of your state. This can be costly and time-consuming, so it is best to avoid it if possible. An attorney can help you draft a will and navigate the probate process.
