A will helps to ensure that your property is transferred appropriately on your death and without one, the state’s intestacy laws will be used to transfer on your property. Many people across the U.S. don’t have a will, although they could benefit from one.

 

However, there are four things you should keep in mind as you set up your meeting with your estate planning attorney to discuss putting together your will.

 

First of all, once the will has been created, you will want to keep the signed original document in a safe location, such as a safe deposit box. You may also want to have your attorney keep it on file so that it can be accessed easily and quickly in the event you pass away. The second thing to keep in mind is that if you do have minor children, a will is an appropriate document to name a guardian for them if something were to happen to you. Third, an executor should be named to administer your estate.

 

In the event that you have a family member or a friend who wants to play this role and who you feel confident entrusting with this role that is a good route to follow. You can also select a professional executor from a trust company or a bank’s trust department.

 

Make sure that you also consider naming a successor trustee in the event that the first person is unable or unwilling to carry out their responsibilities. Finally, even when you put together a will, this most basic estate planning tool does not mean that your entire estate will pass outside of probate. While some estates do pass outside of probate such as insurance policies and annuities, you need to consult with your experienced Pasadena estate planning attorney to learn more about what to expect with this process.

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