Planning one’s estate is important. Whether you are a high net worth individual or a person of modest means, establishing a comprehensive estate plan should be on everyone’s radar. An estate plan can help protect you and your family from undue stress left by an uncertain future. Talking about estate planning can be overwhelming, but having control over your estate is paramount. A will’s function is to direct those who are chosen to carry out your wishes for your estate. Whether you wish to provide for your family, leave assets to a charity, or anything in between, a will is a way to accomplish your goals. Not only can you be comforted by knowing what will happen after you pass, your family can focus on healing when the day comes. If you are interested in beginning the estate planning process, Koplen Law is ready to serve. Contact our firm for a consultation.
A will may be the most important document you can execute. You may have spent a lifetime accumulating valuable and personal assets. A will declared your wishes for the future of those assets, detailing how to divide your estate and distribute what you have worked so hard to achieve. If you were to die intestate (without a will), you could open your family to legal issues and infighting. It is best to prepare your assets for the future. Almost anything can be passed to a beneficiary, including real estate, securities, tokens of personality, and bank accounts. When drafting and executing a will, it is crucial that the document satisfies some requirements.
To execute a valid will, it must meet some simple requirements. When the will is signed, it must be witnessed. During the will signing, the witnesses must understand that they are at a will signing and the testator is at full capacity to sign the document. Sometimes, witnesses will attest to these facts through writing. Once executed properly, a will can be filed and probated.
There are times when a will is suspect. It is rare for an attorney-drawn will to be overturned but a will can be contested. Beneficiaries can challenge a will when there are signs that there may be issues. Some examples of why a will could be contested include:
It is important to consider your legal options as soon as possible. If you need to object a will, it is important to consult with an effective legal team immediately. Time is of the essence.
Estate planning is an important step in one’s life. Thinking about the future of an estate is difficult, but with the guidance and advice of a knowledgeable attorney, a tough topic is made easier. Koplen Law’s legal team has the depth of experience to handle all estates. Our firm has worked with clients from the very wealthy to the more modest living. When you are ready to start the process, Koplen Law is ready to assist. Contact our firm for a consultation today.