Kalamazoo Wills Lawyer

Making a will — a legal document that details how you want your estate to be handled after your death — is one of the most important things you can do for your loved ones. A well-written will eases the transition for your family by transferring property quickly and avoiding many tax burdens.

In spite of these advantages, studies show that most Americans do not have a valid will. If you die without making a will, Michigan state laws will determine how and to whom your assets will be distributed. Making a will with the help of our Kalamazoo wills attorneys at Willis Law can give you the peace of mind that your loved ones will be provided for as well as possible.

Creating a will is not something to wait until your golden years to think about. If you are married, own a home or have children, it is crucial to have a will in order to protect the people you love as well as your assets.

What to Include in a Last Will and Testament Michigan

Depending on your situation, what to include in your will can vary greatly. For example, you might benefit from including:

• A description of your estate and its assets
• The names of beneficiaries who shall receive specific estate assets
• Trusts you want established for the benefit of children
• The names of individuals you wish to act as guardians for children
• Charitable donations
• The name of who you wish to act as executor of your estate
• The names of anyone you wish to disinherit

Should you pass on without an executable will in place, Michigan law will dictate to whom your property will be allocated. Establishing a will is an inexpensive way to ensure your legacy is preserved and is passed down according to your final wishes.

In addition, poorly drafted or ambiguous wills can lead to disputes amongst family members and loved ones. The best way to avoid a dispute over your will is to speak to an experienced attorney who will personalize a strong estate plan so your final goals are achieved.

Tailoring Your Will to the Unique Needs of Your Family

If you live in a blended family, it is very important that you update your will to reflect how you wish your assets to be distributed among the members of your current family and children from your previous marriage. Not updating your will could result in unintended consequences such as disinheriting your children from a previous marriage, or giving an inheritance to your former spouse that you do not wish to provide.

Willis Law — Serving All of West Michigan 

To learn more about how our Kalamazoo wills lawyers can help you create a will, contact us online or call (888) 461-7744 today for a free initial consultation. We have law offices in Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids and Paw Paw for your convenience.