Wills Attorneys in Denton County, Collin County, & Tarrant County

What is a Will?

A Will is a legal document that allows you to specify how you want your property and assets to be distributed after you pass away. It also allows you to name a guardian for your minor children. If you die without a Will, your property will be distributed according to Texas intestacy laws, which may not align with your wishes. Additionally, the court will decide who will be the guardian of your minor children.

There are several things you can do with a Will, including:

• Legal Recognition: When drafted and executed properly, a Will carries legal weight and ensures that your wishes are recognized and followed after your death.
• Distribution of Assets: A Will allows you to specify how your assets and possessions will be distributed among your chosen beneficiaries after your passing. Without a Will, the distribution will typically follow state laws, which might not align with your wishes.
• Guardianship for Dependents: For those with dependents like children or disabled family members, a Will enables you to designate guardians. This ensures they are taken care of by someone you trust, avoiding potential custody disputes or state intervention.
• Executor Appointment: A Will allows you to appoint an executor who will carry out your wishes as per the Will's instructions. This person will manage the distribution of assets, settle debts, and handle other administrative tasks related to your estate.
• Funeral and Burial Wishes: You can express your preferences regarding your funeral arrangements, including burial or cremation, in your Will.
• Minimize Family Disputes: Clear instructions in a Will can help minimize disagreements or disputes among family members regarding asset distribution. It provides a legally binding document outlining your intentions.
• Tax and Cost Efficiency: A properly structured Will can potentially reduce tax liabilities and legal fees for your estate, ensuring more of your assets go to your intended beneficiaries rather than being spent on legal processes.
• Charitable Contributions: If you have philanthropic interests, a Will allows you to leave a portion of your assets to charitable organizations or causes that are meaningful to you.
• Peace of Mind: Creating a Will offers peace of mind, knowing that your wishes will be respected and your loved ones will be taken care of according to your plans.

It is important to note that a Will only goes into effect after you pass away. If you become incapacitated and are unable to make decisions for yourself, a Will cannot be used to specify who will make decisions on your behalf. To do this, you will need to create a living Will or Medical Power of Attorney and, in Texas, you can execute a Designation of Guardian for yourself, letting a Court know who you would choose to take care of you and your estate should the need arise.