A will is a basic document that contains your instructions with regard to the distribution of your assets in the event of your death. However, there are numerous other issues that are dealt with during the course of estate planning. The following are some other issues that you may have to deal with.
- Who will take care of your children (if they are minors) in the event of your death – Thinking about death and having someone else raise your children involves very painful thoughts. However, accidents happen and sometimes people die prematurely. Your will can name guardians for your children. Your will can also contain provisions dealing with who will control your assets and preserve them for the benefit of your children.
- Who would you like to inherit your property at the time of your death? – If you die without a will, your assets pass under the laws of intestacy. This may not be the distribution scheme that you have in mind. If you have been married more than once, you should speak to an attorney about how your second spouse will fair in the event of your death. You may want to make provisions for children from your first marriage. In the event you die, and a second spouse inherits your assets, when that second spouse dies your assets may end up going to her children, not to your children from an earlier relationship.
- Who will take care of your estate in the event you die? – If you draft a will you can name an executor. The executor will handle your funeral arrangements, your burial, and see to it that the terms of your will are carried out. If you do not have a will, close relatives of yours can petition the court to be named the administrator of your estate. You may end up having someone administer your estate that you really don’t trust.
OUR EXPERIENCE WITH WILLS
At the Law Offices of Schlissel DeCorpo we have been writing wills for more than 45 years, and helping our clients with regard to the distribution of assets related to the death of loved ones, friends and relatives. If you have questions concerning estate planning, probating a will, or dealing with estate issues our attorneys are available 7 days a week to answer your questions. Feel free to call us at 800-344-6431.