What You Need to Know About Writing a Last Will and Testament
The conversation reports that as many as 68% of Americans do not have a will.
So chances are, whoever you are reading this, you are unlikely to have completed your own.
We understand that writing a last will and testament can be an intimidating undertaking. It causes individuals to consider things that may not be pleasant, but it is important to complete a will as early as possible.
In order to tackle this intimidating concept, we have compiled a series of will and testament tips to help you get it written in an actionable and effective way.
Why You Need A Will
Let’s start with the obvious. Why do you need a will? Perhaps you are very physically healthy, maybe you don’t have a lot of possessions or belongings to be passed on?
But even in those circumstances, it is important to have a legally binding document that can express your wishes and desires when you can no longer express them for yourself.
And let’s face it, no one knows when their time will come. But if it does and you aren’t prepared, it could result in an ongoing headache for those you love at a time when they should be able to grieve.
How To Write a Last Will and Testament
A will outlines and details the wishes of the deceased in the distribution of their belongings, property, and other assets.
It also states who the deceased wishes to provide guardianship to their dependents in the event that neither parent is still alive.
Whether your assets are given to family and friends or to specific organizations is stated in your will and this ensures that there is no need for disputes or arguments following your death.
So it is important to take careful account of your assets and debts as you prepare to write a will.
Actually Writing a Last Will and Testament
You need a small group of people to actually create a binding last will and testament.
This is to ensure that the document is verifiable and so it requires a number of factors to be valid and actioned by the state you live in.
The testator (the individual who the will is concerning) must be of legal age and sound of mind, as well as indicating the document is their last will and testament.
In addition to this, they must name an executor who will officiate in the execution of their will and have the document signed by a witness.
From there, they can clearly state who the beneficiaries and/or guardians will be and what they wish to will to them.
They may also indicate if there will be trustees who may be responsible for holding the potential assets until the individuals receiving them reach legal age.
For professional guidance, you can always contact services such as wills and probate solicitors who can help to make the process as efficient and simple as possible.
Lawyers have the necessary experience to make the process simple and ensure everything is correct, so they are there to work in your favor.
For More Legal Advice and Helpful Tips
At this point, writing a last will and testament should be a somewhat demystified concept, but if you do need further help or even to refresh your memory, revisit this article.
And if you would like to find more important legal advice, take a look at some of our other blog posts.
