One of the many options people have when deciding how their estate will be distributed after their death is by creating a will. Many people see writing wills as a great way to ensure everyone gets something after they pass and to know their estate will be in good hands.
While a will may not seem like a complicated legal document, a poorly written or invalid will could cause major disputes, ruining the chances of your estate going exactly where you intend.
Here’s what you should keep in mind:
Creating your own will is a really bad idea
Many people don’t realize just how complex a will is to make. There’s a lot of fine detailing to ensure a created will is valid. A will needs to include:
- Correct wordage
- The proper intent
- Two witnesses (who do not benefit from the will)
- A named executor of the estate
- Details on property division that are clear
In addition, a will needs to be voluntarily created, not a product of duress or coercion.
If a will is self-made, then it may not include everything it needs to function as a legal document. This could also create the belief that you weren’t of sound mind during the writing process, persuaded to write the will for the direct benefit of someone who inherits or that the document was fraudulent.
The internet can make writing a will quick and easy to do with free (or paid) templates, but there may be key details excluded by using a free will that you didn’t realize needed to be included. Essentially, what you pay for is what you get.
You shouldn’t have to struggle with writing a will. You may wish to reach out for legal support when creating or revising your will.