Columbia Will Attorneys
Whether you’re in your prime, or you’re getting on in years, having a will is essential. A Will, living or otherwise, will dictate what happens following your death in many different areas of your life and the lives of your family members. If you do not yet have a will in place, then it may be time to contact a Columbia estate planning lawyer so that nothing is left to chance.
What is a Will?
A Will is a legal document that outlines what should happen to your assets and other final wishes. It can address the appointment of guardians for minor children, who will gain ownership of your property, how debts and/or taxes should be handled, and what will happen to your pets. Your will may also act as a backup document in the event that you have a living trust.
A will should also name an executor, or, as they’re referred to in Maryland, a personal representative. This person will be responsible for carrying out the wishes expressed within the will, filing for probate court, and seeing the process through. For this role, you need to choose someone reliable and trustworthy.
Common Misconceptions About Wills in Columbia, MD
Old movies and television shows have given the impression that a will is akin to a letter from the deceased to their surviving friends and family. It can include last wishes including where the deceased wishes to be buried and how they want their body to be handled. In some films, you even see the will dictating that the deceased wants their property to go to pets. As it is in many aspects of our lives, movies aren’t the best resource for helpful, factual information.
Wills are not approriate places to put your final wishes concerning funeral rites and how your body should be processed. Those sorts of directives are much better placed in an advance directive or simply, in a letter to your personal representative and/or family. For the letter, you will need a witness and the witness’s signature for the document to be considered valid.
Not only that, but you cannot leave property to animals despite what Disney may have led you to believe. You can, however, appoint a trusted caretaker and provide financial support for their care. These details can and should be included in your will.
It’s Time to Find a Wills Lawyer in Columbia, Maryland
If you are without a will, then it’s time to pin down your future. We can help you address any concerns that you might have about your will, a living trust, or any other post-mortem legal affairs. Contact us today for more information or to set up an appointment. We can help you take control of your future.