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Writing your will and testament is one of the most important things you can do, ensuring your wishes are respected after you’re gone and preventing bitter conflicts among your family members. While a variety of online tools claim to make writing a will easy, they can’t provide the security and insight of a skilled attorney. Below are a few things to consider when preparing your will.

Why You Should Consult an Attorney When Preparing Your Will

1. Ensuring the Validity of Your Will

will and testamentEach state has different requirements for making a will legally valid. In Connecticut, for example, a will must be typed or hand-written and signed by two witnesses, each of whom saw you sign the document. The witnesses must state under oath that they saw you sign the will and that you did so with full understanding.  Unless your will is legally valid, the probate court will distribute your assets among your family members according to state law, regardless of your expressed intentions.

2. Including All of Your Assets

When preparing their own wills, many people concentrate on high-value assets, neglecting belongings that could spark a dispute later. Your attorney can ensure your will includes instructions regarding the disposition of your bank account, vehicle, and items of sentimental value.

3. Recommending Other Options

A will is sufficient for most people, but probate can be complex if you have varied investments or property in several states. In these instances, your lawyer may recommend establishing a trust instead, which simplifies the process of passing assets down to your beneficiaries. In the long run, a lawyer could save your loved ones a considerable amount of time and energy.

 

For more than 35 years, Weingast Law has provided Hartford residents with high-quality legal advice and personalized attention. From updating your will and testament to estate planning, rely on their expertise to ensure your wishes are legally binding and clearly expressed. Follow the Facebook page for more legal tips, visit the website, or call (860) 233-1440 to begin your estate planning today.

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