Why You Need a Last Will & Testament

Everyone needs an estate plan, and our skilled last will lawyers in Arlington VA can help ensure that your family and financial goals are met after death. An essential part of any estate plan is a Will to tell the world how to distribute assets and to provide for guardianship of any minor children. A Will is a legal document that allows the testator (the person creating the Will) to specify how their assets, including real estate, retirement accounts, and personal belongings, should be distributed upon their death. It names all heirs, from surviving spouses and children to charitable organizations. When properly drafted and signed in the presence of a witness, a Will meets the requirement of being legally valid, giving the probate court and your representative clear instructions to avoid disputes. If an individual does not have a Will, the laws of each State have statutes that govern the disposition of assets and guardianship of any minor children.

A will names all beneficiaries, from surviving spouses, children, and grandchildren to charitable organizations, which are to inherit estate assets. It also organizes how assets should be divided so the probate court and your personal representative (the executor) have clear direction on what percentage of the property goes to whom.

What Does a Last Will Do?

Having a properly signed and executed Last Will and Testament means that you have control over when and how your assets are distributed. Our team will help you craft a personalized document that fits your needs, reflects your wishes, and is tailored to your particular family dynamics and financial situation. Some of the reasons you need a Will are:

• Naming guardians for minor children – the Will is the only place where you can name guardians for your minor children and have that choice recognized by the Court. This is called Testamentary Appointment of Guardian of a Minor. You get to choose who will be taking care of your minor children.
• Setting up Testamentary Trusts – You can set up, within your Will, trusts that will be funded upon your death for individuals who cannot manage their money. Whether a minor child, an individual with a disability, a beneficiary with substance abuse issues, or a beneficiary that has challenges with handling their money, you can leave their assets in a trust and name a trustee to manage those funds for their benefit. You can provide vulnerable individuals in your life with protection to ensure their stability and financial well-being.
• Leaving money to charity or to individuals that you choose rather than relying on state laws to determine the distribution of your assets. Do you want to leave money to friends or important charities? You must have a Will to do that.
• Making provisions for your Pets. They are also beloved family members!
• Minimize overall death taxes if possible.

Will and Testament Attorneys Serving Arlington VA, Maryland, Washington DC, and Northern Virginia

Our experienced team at Schleifman Law, PLC provides last will and estate planning services throughout Arlington VA, Maryland, Washington DC, and Northern Virginia. Whether you’re looking to create a revocable trust within your Will, transfer assets to loved ones, or provide for charitable donations, we’ll help you draft the appropriate language to ensure a smooth process.

Contact Us Today for Professional Last Will Services

Secure your family’s future by creating a comprehensive Last Will and Testament. Our firm offers personalized services to address all your estate planning needs. Whether you require assistance with asset distribution or guardianship provisions, we are here to help. Contact our last will lawyer in Arlington VA today to discuss your specific needs and schedule a consultation