Estate planning is an important part of life. The will, probably the most significant document one can draft, allows a person to decide what should happen to his or her possessions after passing. Developing an estate plan and executing a will is probably the most important thing a person can do for themselves and for the family that will be left behind. It is understandable that discussing one’s estate can be hard and downright uncomfortable. It is important to discuss these matters with an estate planning attorney that can ease you through the conversation, guide you through your options, and develop an estate plan that meets your every need. Zimmet Law Group, P.C. has decades of experience helping clients achieve all goals for their estates. Whether you live a modest life or are a person with means, our firm is ready to serve. If you are interested in discussing the future of your estate or wish to begin the estate planning process, contact Zimmet Law Group, P.C. for a consultation today.
The importance of executing a will
A will is probably the most important document a person can execute in their lifetime. Simply put, a will declares your wishes for your possessions after you pass. Everyone should consider speaking with an attorney to start the process of estate planning. A person who dies without a will (intestate) opens an estate to the arbitrary mechanism of a New York court as it allocates possessions. In addition, dying intestate opens one’s family up to the uncertainty of the courts and the possibility of infighting. With a will, you can pass almost anything to a beneficiary, from small tokens of personality to significant assets. Some of these include, but are not limited to:
- Personal belongings
- Securities
- Bank accounts
- Real estate
In addition, a will should be used to pick an executor. An executor is a person chosen to administer the will. This person will ensure that all provisions are carried out after death. This position’s responsibilities include filing the will with probate, carrying out all financial obligations of the estate, protecting assets until allocation, and distributing assets at the appropriate time, just to name a few.
Executing a valid will
In New York, there are some requirements for executing a valid will. A will must be signed and witnessed by at least two individuals. During the signing, the testator (the subject of the will) must declare that they are of full capacity and wholly understand why they are there. In some cases, the witnesses will sign a document to attest to why they were there and what the testator declared. Though having an attorney is not a requirement, it is in everyone’s best interests to do so. An attorney can help a testator develop a comprehensive estate plan and protect the estate from challenges to the will.
Contact an experienced law firm to draft your will
It is never too late to start the estate planning process. Whether you are interested in a simple will or a more in-depth estate plan, contacting an attorney is a good first step. Zimmet Law Group, P.C. has decades of experience helping clients through the estate planning process. Providing each client with the attention and care they deserve, we will work to protect your interests and those of your estate and family. To discuss your estate with one of our knowledgeable attorneys, contact Zimmet Law Group, P.C.
