Wills

A will is a document that clearly states how your estate will be distributed when you die. It is the most common way to assert your preference with regard to who will receive your assets. A well-crafted will facilitates a smooth transition of your assets and property to your surviving heirs and may help you sidestep additional taxes incurred if you do not have a will.

Wills vary in complexity depending on the size of your estate and the number of heirs you name. An effective will not only lets you maintain control over who gets your assets, it also enables you to appoint someone you trust to manage the distribution of your estate.

The following details may be covered in a will:

• Who will receive specific property and assets
• Who will be responsible for distributing your property and assets
• Who will take care of dependent children
• Gifts to charity
• The formation of posthumous trusts

Do I Need a Will?

Everyone needs a will. It is an inexpensive way to ensure that the people you want to receive your assets do so, and to guarantee that your estate is managed and distributed by someone you trust.

It is especially critical to have a will if you have minor children, do not have a surviving spouse, or desire to distribute your assets other than to relatives. Without one, you will have no say in who receives your assets.

For more information, see The Need for Wills.

When No Will Exists

If you die without a valid will, you are intestate, and the laws of your state will govern the distribution of your assets amongst your surviving relatives. This may make the process more lengthy, complex, and costly.

If the state has to appoint someone to manage and distribute your assets, that person will receive a fee to do so. However, if you draw up a will that selects the person who will manage your estate, you can choose someone who will waive these costly fees. This will leave more money to be distributed to your heirs.

Saidis, Sullivan & Rogers Can Help

Our experienced estate planning attorneys have drafted thousands of wills in our 50 year history. We always strive to provide our clients with sound judgment and guidance through the estate planning process. Many of the wills we create are for long-standing clients who have previously come to us for assistance in other legal matters. By building a basis of trust and understanding with our clients over years of service, we are better able to cater to their estate planning needs.

Read about Living Trusts vs. Wills

The attorneys at Saidis, Sullivan & Rogers can help ensure that all of your heirs are properly provided for when you are gone. Please contact one of our estate planning attorneys today to schedule a consultation in one our offices in Camp Hill, Carlisle, and Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.