Will
A Will is a legal document that clearly communicates a person’s wishes about how their assets should be handled when they die. It can also be used to appoint trustees and guardians for children and/or dependents. The document will identify an executor, who is someone you choose to carry out the specific wishes outlined in your Will after you die, as well as beneficiaries of your assets.
Advanced Directive
An Advanced Directive is a legal document that explains a person’s wishes on how to handle certain medical, legal, and/or financial situations when a person is unable to act for themselves. These documents can be used to let other people know what choices you have made about medical care or financial decisions. A Living Will, also known as Healthcare Proxy or Do Not Resuscitate (DNR), and a Power of Attorney are Advanced Directives.
Why it is important to have a Will and Advanced Directive
Everyone needs a Will.
You are never too young to have a Will. Although it is a sensitive subject, and many people do not like to think about needing one, having a Will can make things much easier for loved ones in the time of loss. Some people think that if you do not have many assets, or a large net worth, you do not need a will, which is untrue. It is important to have a Will, regardless of age or net worth. Without a Will, the court will distribute your assets according to state law, which may not necessarily be how you wish.
An Advanced Directive can help inform medical doctors and your loved ones as to your wishes when difficult decisions need to be made. Unfortunately, these situations can sometimes arise unexpectedly. Having these documents in place will alleviate loved ones from needing to make these types of decisions themselves and ensure that your wishes are carried out.
At Leyden, Capotorto, Ritacco, Corrigan & Sheehy, one of our experienced attorneys will draft your Will and/or Advanced Directive for you. Simply complete our easy to fill out Estate Planning Packet, and we will do the rest. Once we ensure the documents accurately reflect your wishes, a meeting will be scheduled with one of our attorneys and our onsite notary to finalize.
Contact us today to have your Will and/or Advanced Directive prepared and have peace of mind knowing that you have planned responsibly for your loved ones.
