A last will and testament serves as the foundation for your estate planning. Essentially, this document ensures that your assets and personal possessions are passed on to the loved ones that you have chosen to remember. A will attorney in Hinsdale can help with the wording to ensure everything is concise and that there is no doubt about your wishes. As you discuss the provisions, make sure these three essentials are included.
Always Include an Introduction
The introduction serves as the way to define the purpose of the document itself. It also makes it clear that you are preparing this document without coercion or interference, and that your mental faculties are intact at the time the will is drafted. Your lawyer will explain why the introduction is necessary and ensure the words used are in full compliance with laws in your jurisdiction.
Specifically Name Your Heirs
Refrain from making general references to familial connections. Instead, use specific names for each of the heirs. This ensures there is no confusion about who is meant to receive what. Remember that you can also list a secondary heir to receive your assets in the event the first choice dies before you. Your Will attorney in Hinsdale will help you structure the instructions so there is no doubt about how to accomplish this.
Specifically Identify Those Who You Intentionally Omit
You can save your heirs time and trouble by specifically mentioning that it’s your intention to leave nothing to certain people. This is a pre-emptive strategy that helps to shut down attempts to contest the will. For example, you can specifically state that a former spouse, a particular child, or some other relative who might try to make a claim is prevented from doing so. The will attorney in Hinsdale can help you come up with the best way to word this provision.
Do you need to draft a last will and testament or update an existing one? At Bielski Law Office, LTD, we’re always ready to help. Call us today or visit
