Wills
Every good estate plan includes a will, or as it is sometimes referred to, a "Last Will and Testament". A will is a document that states how you want your estate to be handled after your pasing. The will is filed with the Court after a person passes. In the most basic fom, a will includes the following: THe individuals name, the city and state they live in, a provision appointing a personal representative also called the executor, a guardian for minor children, if necessary, a list of specific bequests, a statement of who is to receive the remainder of the propery, controlsover any bequests to minors, instructions for the personal representative, the dated signature of the person executing the will, and a declaration of two witnesses stating that the testator was of sound mind, and that they witnessed the execution of the will. This portion is notarized as well.
As with many legal issues, if you do not make decisions concerning certain issues, the Court will decide who will be the guardian of any minor children, among other things. A well drafted will allows you to retain control over these decisions as opposed to allowing someone else to make them for you.
Depending on your circumstance, a well drafted wil may be all you need. Many people believe that the any property they own at death passes to those individuals identified in the will. In many cases this is incorrect. A will may propertly dispose of some assets, but not others. Depending upon your individual situation, additional estate planning tools may be necessary, or beneficial in helping you accomplish your goals. We understand the need for, and limitations of, a proper will. Please contat us for a free consultation to discuss drafting your will.
Living Wills
A living will is a document which details your wishes concerning what type of medical treatment you would like to receive in the event of a medical emergency that renders you unable to make decisions concerning your own treatment.
We will review with you all of your available medical care options. A living will provides the person you appoint with clear instructions concerning your wishes in the event they are required to make decisions for you.