Once you decide to begin your estate planning, creating a will is perhaps the most important step in the process. In recent years, more and more people have decided to make this a DIY project, due to the numerous outlines that can be found online. Unfortunately, this is also an easy way for you to make many mistakes when creating your will, which could lead to prolonged litigation and family members fighting with one another after you die. If you are now preparing to draft your will, here are five reasons why it’s smart to work closely with an attorney.
Consider All the Possibilities
When you think of your will, more than likely you assume it’s just about leaving property to your loved ones. However, an attorney can help you realize there is much more to it. For example, you will need to name an executor for your estate, and you may want to designate guardianships if you have young children. Should you want to leave anything to charity, a lawyer can help with this as well.
Protect Your Interests
When drafting your will, your attorney, like those from Hand Law, P.C., can also help you protect your interests by suggesting you create other important legal documents. These include a healthcare power of attorney and financial power of attorney. Should you become incapacitated, these documents will quickly become extremely important to your estate.
Ensure Everything is Legal
Since states have strict laws regarding probate and these laws tend to change frequently, having a lawyer help you draft your will can ensure everything contained in your will is legal and binding in your state. You don’t want there to be hostility between family members concerning the will itself. This is a good way to gain peace of mind that what you determined will be set in stone.
Complex Family Situations
If you were previously married or perhaps have children from a prior relationship, trying to create a will on your own that will adequately address these issues can be almost impossible. If your family dynamics are complex, working with an estate planning attorney can help you create arrangements that will satisfy the loved ones left behind after your death.
Reducing Tax Burdens
Finally, an estate planning lawyer can help you in reducing the tax burdens your loved ones will face after your passing. An attorney will be able to explain certain strategies aimed at reducing the tax burdens on your beneficiaries, allowing you to make the best decisions based on the size of your estate.
When you have a lawyer’s help in drafting your will, the process will be much easier and you will know that everything will be in proper order for your estate, giving you and your loved one’s peace of mind. The last thing you need to worry about at the end of life is if your will is in order. To avoid this, make sure to work with a lawyer well in advance to avoid stress.
