Creating a will provides direction for asset distribution, appoints guardians for minor children, and helps minimize family conflict during emotional times. An up to date will also reduces probate delays and ensures your wishes are respected, giving you greater control over how your legacy is managed and shared.
Holistic planning aligns family goals with asset management, providing a single coherent roadmap. This approach minimizes gaps between documents and reduces the likelihood of contradictory instructions that could complicate probate and administration.
Hatcher Legal, PLLC brings a steady, practical approach to will drafting and estate planning. We focus on clear communication, thorough document preparation, and thoughtful consideration of your family’s unique circumstances to craft durable plans.
Life events require updates to guardianship, beneficiaries, and asset listings. We offer periodic reviews to ensure the plan remains aligned with evolving circumstances and legal requirements.
A good will starts with identifying your goals, listing major assets, and naming guardians if you have minor children. You should include executors, beneficiaries, and instructions for special bequests. Clarity helps prevent disputes and ensures your wishes are understood by loved ones and the court.
Wills should be reviewed whenever there are significant life changes like marriage, divorce, birth, death of a beneficiary, or a substantial shift in assets. A periodic checkup with your attorney keeps the will current and aligned with current laws and personal goals.
The executor should be someone trustworthy, organized, and capable of handling financial and legal tasks. This person oversees probate, pays debts, and distributes assets according to your will. It is common to choose alternates in case the primary cannot serve.
Yes, many wills address digital assets by listing online accounts, passwords, and access methods. It is best to provide clear instructions or appoint a trusted person to manage digital remnants, ensuring they are handled according to your wishes.
A will directs assets after death, while a trust transfers assets during life or after death. Trusts can provide ongoing management and privacy. The choice depends on goals, asset types, and the desired level of control over distributions and timing.
While it is possible to draft a will without a lawyer, professional guidance reduces errors and legal risk. An attorney ensures compliance with state law, proper formatting, witness requirements, and up-to-date considerations for guardianship and taxes.
Dying without a will means state intestacy laws determine asset distribution. This may not reflect your wishes and can place guardianship decisions in court hands. A simple will avoids default outcomes and provides clear directives for your loved ones.
Life events require updates to your will. After marriage, divorce, or birth, review beneficiaries, guardians, and asset allocations. Changes should be executed with the same formalities to maintain validity and enforceability.
Beneficiaries can be updated by executing a new will or codicil. It is important to follow proper formalities and notify the executor of changes to avoid disputes or invalid allocations.
Common errors include vague language, missing guardianships, improper execution, and failing to update after life events. Clarity, thoroughness, and professional review help prevent these issues and support a durable estate plan.
