Will Lawyers in Troy

Estate Planning Attorneys Serving Oakland County & Surrounding Areas

A last will and testament is an integral part of your estate planning process, and it’s the most common way to ensure your assets are distributed to your heirs according to your wishes. So, to prepare a will according to your needs it is essential to have an experienced wills attorney in Troy, MI.

The experienced lawyers at The Center for Elder Law and BRMM can assist you in preparing a will that will protect your assets and distribute them properly once you’ve passed away. Our will attorney knows the ins and outs of proper will preparation and can help keep yours out of probate court.

Why is a Will Important?

It is essential to have a will. It is a legal document that specifies who should inherit your property after your death. With a will, you can name a “personal guardian” to care for any minor children in the case that you and the other parent dies or if the surviving parent is unable to care for the children. They will have legal guardianship of the children until they turn 18.

What Happens if I Die Without a Will?

If you die without a will, your state’s laws on succession will be applied to your case. Generally, a spouse and children are “next-in-line” to inherit your property. If you do not have a spouse or children, close relatives like your parents, siblings, and grandparents will inherit your property. If you have no relatives, your property will go to the state.

• Related: What Problems Will Your Family Face If You Die Without a Will?

Do You Need an Attorney for a Will?

While you don’t technically need an attorney for a will, it is recommended to have one. An experienced attorney can build a sound and specific will. An attorney will also be there to help you update the will if need be. Probably the biggest benefit will be that they will help you avoid easy to make mistakes.

What Makes a Will Legal?

Generally, states require these for the will to be valid:

• The testator (writer of the will) is 18 years old and of sound mind.
• The document must state that it is the testator’s will.
• The will is printed, except in the case where it is handwritten.
• There is a provision that disposes of property or names a guardian for minor children.
• An executor is appointed on the document.
• The testator and two witnesses must sign and date the will. The witnesses should be 18 years old and not be beneficiaries in the will.

It is not necessary to get your will notarized, however, it may make the probate process easier.