One of the most loving acts you can do for your family is planning for the smooth transition of your estate. Families are often caught off guard during an emotional time. They are not only dealing with the loss of a loved one, but the fallout of settling an estate that was not put in order. This is why a will is a vital element to any estateplan. Wills can help transition a person’s estate to their intended beneficiaries.
Basics
There are some basic points about wills for estate planning services. Family, friends, or charities can be designated to benefit from your desire to give them certain assets at your passing. You must be of 18 years old and of sound mind to make out a will. Each state governs the validity of a will and how to make it legal, so talking with an attorney where you live is advised. Generally you must sign the will and have two or three witnesses.
Guardian of Children
You can nominate a guardian or conservator for any minor children you may have. By doing this, you can direct who takes care of your children rather than letting the state decide that important issue. You should also appoint an executor or personal representative to carry out your directions. The executor or personal representative is responsible to pay off any debts, pay taxes, and collect and account for any of your estate assets.
Wills Do Not Avoid Probate
In addition, wills are not private and do not avoid the probate of assets. There are many other aspects of a valid will and its role in an estate plan. While they have many benefits, they are only one part of a good estate plan. Because of the various issues, you should contact a qualified attorney to discuss all of the options as they apply to you personally.
At the law office of PEARSON & BUTLER, PLLC, our attorneys assist clients with Utah estate planning matters. Our estate planning attorneys can answer questions you may have regarding estate planning, such as Utah wills, Utah trusts, power of attorneys, living wells, and other matters. In collaboration with you, our Utah attorneys can create an estate plan to accomplish your goals and give you peace of mind. If you need to contact a Utah lawyer, Carson Pearson and Jeff Butler would be happy to offer you a free consultation.