Finding A Lawyer

Although lawyers are a dime a dozen, finding one you trust to take care of your Last Will and Testament without breaking your bank is another issue.

Do You Need a Lawyer?

First of all, not everyone who wants to draft a Will needs a lawyer, at least not immediately. There are an increasing number of reliable sources for ready-made, or statutory Wills, as the subject of end-of-life Wills and living wills becomes more and more a subject of nightly news shows. Many businesses offer a convenient means by which anyone over the age of 18 can draft a basic and legal Will.

Basic Wills are considered acceptable especially for single persons without children and with simple to distribute personal assets. However, when the equation grows more complicated; if there are divorces, step children, same sex relationships and extensive personal assets, then most legal sources recommend consulting a lawyer.

Getting a Lawyer

Obviously, the yellow pages are chock full of attorneys. And certainly a perfectly fine one can be found there. Do not forget to consider the knowledge and resources of family and friends, though. You might not be aware that a family member has a lawyer who is a friend, or maybe you have an attorney in the family. A lawyer who comes well recommended is much better than one you know nothing about.

Meeting With the Attorney

When you meet with the attorney, make sure you have appropriate information. You will want to have thought in advance about who you want to choose as your Executor. Your Executor will be responsible for handling your Will and all final business associated with your estate, or personal matters. Choose someone you trust. Also, some states require your Executor be a resident of the same state. Make sure you have discussed this role with the person you have chosen. They will be named in your Will.

Have a list of your beneficiaries and the personal assets you are planning on leaving to them. Also, have names of legal Guardians for any children under the age of 18. Once again, make sure you have discussed these roles with the Guardians you have chosen.

Are you planning on leaving assets to charity? Or creating a financial Trust? All of this information is important to how your attorney drafts your Will.

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