Most Frequently Asked Questions About Having a Will in Westerville, Ohio
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Having a Will in Westerville, Ohio
What is a will?
In its most basic sense, a legal will is a document which gives instructions to the court regarding how a person’s property will be distributed upon their death. While we usually shy away from discussing the inevitable end, it may be prudent to consider all of the options available while you are still healthy. No one wants to be forced to leave such questions up for others to decide. While the maker of the will obviously has a great deal of control over the stipulations, a will must meet certain formal requirements to be considered valid by the state.
Who can have a will?
Anyone over the age of 18 can potentially execute a will for the disposition their assets. Moreover, anyone can be designated as the beneficiaries of a will. Friends, business associates or family members may be included in this.
What is a codicil and how can I make changes to my will?
It is possible to make changes regarding your will whenever you so choose. In fact, it is better to always consider making changes when your personal or familial circumstances change. A codicil would be needed to make partial changes. A codicil is a document that allows you to make minor amendments, yet it is recommended that one avoids making too many of these as it is better practice to consolidate them into a brand-new will.
What should I do in the case of a major life change?
It is always prudent to consult with your lawyer or attorney to discuss any number of important considerations regarding life changes. Such major changes can manifest themselves in any number of ways. Marriage and childbirth are two common examples of this.
How long does a will last?
A will generally last forever if it has been properly executed. If it is not expressly revoked by the holder, it will theoretically last forever. Moreover, it is possible to revoke and destroy a will with the intention of creating a new one.
Should I write a will with along with my estate plan?
Contrary to what some believe, it takes more effort to administer an estate without a will. This is one of the many great reasons to think about creating one as early as possible.
All concerns regarding the drafting and processing of a will can be more thoroughly examined through the aid and professional acumen of an estate planning attorney.
Attorney Joe Budde has been helping individuals answer these questions and supporting his clients for decades. We invite you to contact us today!
