{"id":358074,"date":"2016-04-04T10:46:22","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:46:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/wills.html"},"modified":"2023-09-13T12:53:47","modified_gmt":"2023-09-13T17:53:47","slug":"wills","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/hirealawyer\/choosing-the-right-lawyer\/wills.html","title":{"rendered":"Do I Need a Will?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Do I Need a Will?<\/h1>\n\n
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\n By Oni Harton, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Melissa Bender, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

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A will is a legal document that explains how you want your property and belongings distributed after you die. It also allows you to name guardians for minor children and provide instructions that help loved ones avoid confusion or disputes.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n

Wills are the most common way for people to plan for the distribution of personal assets after death. Sometimes, you hear it called a “last will and testament.” Both terms have the same meaning. It’s a legal document that expresses how a person’s assets should be distributed.<\/p>\n

A well-written will<\/a> helps loved ones after you are gone. It can also give you peace of mind during your lifetime. Creating a valid will ensures your wishes are followed instead of relying on state intestacy laws to determine who receives your assets.<\/p>\n

An estate planning attorney<\/a> can provide expert legal advice and help you create a comprehensive estate plan tailored to\u00a0your needs. Keep reading to learn more about this process and how an attorney can help protect your wishes.<\/p>\n

What Is the Purpose of a Will?<\/h2>\n

Wills vary from simple to elaborate<\/a>. It all depends on the needs and goals of the person making the will.<\/p>\n

For example, some people make a will to name a guardian for their minor children. The probate court will have the testator’s guidance regarding guardianship if something happens to them. Others use a will as part of a broader estate plan<\/a>. This estate plan may include the following legal documents, including:<\/p>\n