Basic or "Simple Wills"

A simple will is a last will and testament which applies to smaller estates.  As indicated in its name, the simple will is the most basic form of a will one can make.  The simple will allows a person to dispose of any property and/or assets.

How Simple Wills Work

Frequently, in a simple will, the testator distributes the property to his or her spouse or children.   Moreover, the will can include a provision appointing an executor, or personal representative to handle the oversight and administration of the estate. In addition, the simple will allows for the distribution of assets to children under eighteen to be distributed pursuant to the Uniform Gifts to Minors Act.  Furthermore, the will allows the testator to leave assets to charitable causes.  The simple will may be a short, one page document if the testator does not have many assets or if the testator seeks to limit the distribution of the assets to one person or one cause. The simple will remains in effect until the testator changes the will or issues a new will.  The issuance of a new will automatically revokes the previously executed will.

Simple Will Legal Requirements

Every jurisdiction has different requirements for the proper creation and execution of a simple will.  While one may want to make his or her own simple will, it is always a prudent idea to consult with an estate planning attorney in order to ensure that one’s wishes are adequately fulfilled.  Frequently, one may think that his or her estate will be small, when in fact the estate will be sizable.  An estate planning attorney can help you identify your assets and make an effective estate plan.