Preparing a simple will
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Preparing a simple will
I would like to prepare a will. I do not have a spouse or children. I do not
own property. The will would be basic – any personal items and money in the bank
to one person. Although, I would like to set up issues about who decides medical
questions if I’m unable to. I’ve looked online and am somewhat overwhelmed by
sites suggesting attorneys, sites like ‘Legal Zoom’ which I saw many negative
reviews. I don’t have a ton of money to spend drawing one up. Any advice?
Asked on May 13, 2018 under Estate Planning, Illinois
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 5 years ago | Contributor
Hire a lawyer to do this: if a will--or a document like a health care proxy/advance directive (a document providing medical instructions, often called a "living will"), or a power of attorney--does not use the correct language, does not comply with any statutory requirements, and/or is not properly executed (signed) and witnessed, it will not be valid. This area of law is highly technical: an important document can be invalidated by what seems like a minor mistake. For these things, it is well worth hiring an attorney to make sure it is done correctly.
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