Checklist for Preparing to Make a Will

When you are starting to think about estate planning, and about making a will in particular, it is important to plan ahead before you begin working with an estate planning lawyer. Whether you are a young adult or an older adult (or any age in between), it is essential to have a will. Although there are many myths and misconceptions about who needs a will, the truth is that every adult should have a will. Otherwise, Georgia’s intestate succession laws will apply, and anyone to whom you wanted to leave property ultimately may not receive your assets — the way in which your property is distributed will be determined by the state. Yet in addition to leaving assets, there are also other important reasons to make a will, especially for parents of minor children. A will allows you to name a guardian for your minor child in the event of your death.

As you prepare to meet with your estate planning lawyer to make a will, you can get ready by creating a checklist of all important items. Consider the following checklist information and prepare yourself for your estate planning meeting with your attorney.

Gathering Personal Information 

You will want to gather personal documentation and information that you will need when creating your will, including identification.

Choosing an Executor 

Selecting an executor is an extremely important task. The executor will have the responsibility of carrying out the terms of your will, as well as identifying assets and debts, paying debts and taxes of the estate, and ensuring that assets are distributed according to your wishes. You will want to choose an executor you trust, and someone who is willing to serve in this critical role. You should also consider alternate executors, and you can appoint co-executors in the event this is important for you.

Identifying Property and Beneficiaries

In creating your will, it is essential to identify all of your property that you own, and the individuals or entities to whom you want to leave that property. You can be as broad in your will as identifying your home and “all of its contents,” for example, and leaving the home and its contents to one or multiple parties, or you can identify specific and detailed assets to be left to individuals or entities. The degree of specificity is for you to decide, and a lawyer can answer any questions you have about identifying property in your will.

Naming a Guardian for Minor Children

 If you have one or more minor children, you should think carefully about the person you want to name as a guardian in your will in the event that you pass away and cannot care for your children. This should be someone (or a couple) you trust, and who has agreed to serve as guardian.

Contact a Gwinnett County Estate Planning Lawyer

Whether you have already created a checklist for making a will and are ready to get to work on your will, or you have initial questions and need advice in advance about preparing for estate planning. An experienced Gwinnett County estate planning attorney at Bowman Law Firm can speak with you today. We can answer any questions you have, and we can help you to think through your particular estate planning needs. In addition to a will, all adults should also have an advance directive for health care, along with other important estate planning documents. Once you are ready to begin the estate planning process, our firm is here to assist you from start to finish. Contact us today for help with all of your estate planning needs in and around Norcross.

Source:

law.justia.com/codes/georgia/title-53/