A will details how an estate should be disbursed according to the testator's last wishes. The estate is distributed during the probate process, which happens after the executor submits the will to the probate court. The probate process can take several months to a year...
Writing a will is a huge step in planning for the future. It ensures that people who care about you will carry out your wishes regarding your assets and belongings after you die. However, simply creating a will is only the first step to securing...
Some people will leave sentimental items out of their will. These are items where the emotional value is greater than the financial value. For example, these could include book collections, trinkets from around the house, home furnishings, artwork and other things of this nature. They...
A simple will is a legal document that details an individual's wishes regarding the allocation of their assets and, usually, appoints an executor to carry out these instructions. This straightforward yet powerful legal instrument provides clarity and helps ensures that an individual's belongings are distributed...
You have “heirs” and you can have “beneficiaries.” While these two terms are often used interchangeably to mean someone who benefits from the deceased’s estate, they do not necessarily mean the same thing for legal purposes. When planning your will, it can help to learn...
In Virginia, like all the other states, you have a right to draft your will and distribute your assets as you wish. For instance, you can choose who inherits the house and who acts as your will’s executor. However, we live in a very litigious...
When thinking about your will, you may also take into account that you need to pick an executor to handle your estate after you die. This person should be close to you, such as a family member or longtime friend. Learning about the positive traits...