|
If
you are over the age of 18 and you have property and assets that you
want to leave to someone, you need a will. Regardless of the size of
your estate, it is critical that you have at least a simple will. A
valid will gives you control over how your assets will be distributed
and how your dependents will be cared for in your absence.
Basic Requirements For a Will
*
The Will maker must be eighteen years old,
*
The Will must be in writing,
*
The Will must be signed by the Will-maker,
*
The Will must be witnessed and signed by at least two people.
Without
a will, a judge, who does not know you, your family or your wishes,
will use state law to determine how your assets will be distributed and
who will manage your estate. This may directly conflict with your
wishes.
What You Should Consider Before Making A
Will?
*
Who should receive my property? In what proportions? If there are
children, at what age(s) should they receive their inheritance?
*
Who should be named as guardian of my minor children? If you have minor
children you should also consider a Child Protection Plan which will
name temporary and permanent guardians for your children.
*
Should a Trust be created in my Will for my spouse, children or others?
*
Should insurance proceeds be payable to a Trustee named in my Will?
Spouse? Children?
*
Who should I name as Personal Representative? Successor Personal
Representative?
*
Can I lessened or avoid estate taxes?
Changing or Revoking a Will
You
can always revoked or changed your Will. You can change your Will by
executing a new Will or by an addition called a “Codicil.” Written
changes, such as additions, deletions, comments or marks, on the Will
itself may invalidate the Will. Therefore, once signed, a Will should
not be altered in any way without the assistance of an estate planning
attorney.
We
understand that your children and your assets are important to you. If
you wish to ensure your children are fully protected and to take
control how your assets will be managed, protected, and distributed,
start now by contacting the Kinsey Law Group.
To
learn more about how we can help you, please feel free to explore this
website and our blog.
Use the "Contact Us" link above to send us any questions you may have
or to
make an appointment.
|