Last Will & Testament…

Preparing your Last Will & Testament is a thoughtful way to take care of your loved ones when you are no longer here. This document allows you to dictate the wishes you have for your property, assets, etc. Leaving this world without a Last Will & Testament can leave these decisions for your Estate up to judges and/or state officials that may cause your family strife.  Creating a Last Will & Testament allows you to be clear as to who gets what and how much they get. This document also allows for you to identify who should care for your children if they are under the age of 18 at the time of your passing.  Without a Last Will & Testament, the Court System will decide on their placement.

We understand that it can feel overwhelming to make plans for the property and assets you have accumulated over a lifetime, and it can be difficult to think about how your children should be cared for should the unthinkable happen. Our goal is to help our clients create wills in which they can feel confident and secure.

Simple mistakes can render wills invalid in whole or in part. Essential elements of a valid Will can include but are not limited to:

• Intent — The testator, the person who creates the will, must intend that the document be a last will and testament at the time it is made. The testator must be of sound mind and comprehension, and must create the will voluntarily, without coercion or undue influence.
• Proper execution — A traditional will is written, signed by the testator and often affirmed by witnesses.
• Clear language — A statement within a will that is confusing or open to various interpretations can invalidate all or part of the will.

An error in the drafting of your will can cause confusion in the court and conflict among your heirs. To make sure that your wishes can be carried out, it is wise to hire an attorney to ensure these mistakes aren’t made. Jolly Williamson Attorneys at Law offers pertinent and personal legal advice for drafting valid wills.

What is a Living Will?

A Living Will is a legal document which lets others know what your personal choices are for end-of-life medical treatment.  It can lay out the procedures or medications that you want…or don’t want… to prolong your life in the event that you cannot speak for yourself (ie: if you are under anesthesia or unconscious).

You may say “Well, I already have a Last Will & Testament” and that’s wonderful, however, the Last Will & Testament only takes place when you are deceased, while a Living Will takes place when you are still alive.

As your life unfolds, your circumstances and concerns may shift. To remain current, you should review and update your will intermittently. We can advise you on your will in light of your current finances, marital status and family situation. The lawyers at Jolly Williamson Attorneys at Law draft valid supplements (known as codicils) that address changes in your state of affairs and outlook.

Contact us today to get these documents in place for you and your loved ones!

Call us at 919-496-4152 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation at our Louisburg office.