If you have assets you want to pass down after you pass away, you need to have an estate plan and a will. We understand that some people do not want to spend a lot of money making their plans, but even those with smaller estates need to make sure that they meet important legal requirements and that their plan is actually seen as valid once they are gone. This is why we do not recommend that you write a will without a lawyer. Instead, you should meet with a Washtenaw County wills attorney from our firm and discuss all of your estate planning needs with them.
What Happens if I Have No Will?
When you have no will, the state gets to decide what happens to your assets. They will usually pass to the closest family member, like your spouse or children. If you do not have a living spouse or any children, assets can go to your parents, grandchildren, or other family members. The state essentially works its way through your family tree to find someone who can take your stuff.
This might not be the ideal situation though. Maybe you and your brother shared a love of American muscle cars, so you wanted to pass on your classic vehicles to him. Maybe you and a cousin were particularly close due to shared hobbies and you want to leave them some of your collectibles. These are all things that you can do when you write a will. If you leave things up to the state, the probate court will never make these distinctions.
What Mistakes Can Be Made When You Write a Will Without a Lawyer?
If you write your will without a lawyer and make mistakes, your estate could be treated as if you never wrote a will in the first place. This is why it is so important to make sure that your will and estate plan are enforceable. Our attorneys can help you meet the state’s standards so that you do not run into trouble later on.
Can I Change My Will Without a Lawyer?
You do have the option to change your will, and you probably should after major life events. If you get married or divorced, have a child, or experience a death in the family, it’s a good idea to talk to our estate planning lawyers about changing your will. Again, we do not recommend doing this on your own. You want to be sure that this document will stay in good legal standing.
Contact Our Law Firm
So if you are ready to get serious about making a will and an estate plan, don’t try and do it on your own. Contact Collis, Griffor & Hendra to schedule a consultation. We can handle the paperwork and make this progress far less stressful for you and your family.
