Having a will is arguably one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your family. Not only can a Will legally protect your spouse, children, and assets, it will also spell out exactly how you wish your estate to be handled after you have passed on. Without a will, your wishes are left to the decisions / interpretations of others and many times can cause unnecessary conflicts within the family. For these reasons, many of our clients come to us to draft their will, health care proxy, and/or power of attorney. Our process is kept simple and very efficient as you will see below! 

 

 

 

Our Intake Process:

 

At the initial meeting with our office, the client will sit with Attorney David Fried personally and be asked several questions regarding their goals. These inquiries include everything from the client’s wishes, assets, current health status, family dynamics, etc. Thereafter, an extensive Will Formis provided which will go more in depth as to the client’s background and ensure all information needed for the will drafting process is provided to our office. Throughout the process, the client will receive timely updates and further inquiries as needed. Before the final date is scheduled to execute the will, a draft is always provided to the client for their review to ensure absolute accuracy.  

 

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Execution of the Will:

 

Once the client has reviewed the draft will and provides approval, a date which is most convenient to the client will be scheduled for the execution of the document. At the time of execution, an attorney will always be present and witnesses will be provided as required to validate the will. If the will is contested after the client’s passing, the witnesses at the execution will likely be subpoenaed to testify that the client did indeed execute the will, intended for this to be their will, was not under duress at the time of execution, and fully understood the process. 

 

A final review of the will is done once more with the client to ensure absolute accuracy and address any questions that may be raised. Assuming the will is acceptable and has final approval, it is then executed by the client, witnesses, presiding attorney, and a Notary Public. The original will is then provided to the client along with courtesy copies for distribution purposes. One copy will always be held with this office for safe keeping. In the event that any changes or updates need to be made in the future, we welcome calls to make those adjustments! It is extremely important that these changes are not made by the client themselves as it can invalidate the entire will. And there lies the simple process! 

 

 

 

As one can see, will executions do not have to be a complicated or daunting task. Our attorneys and staff ensure that little is required of the client and stress / confusion are taken out of the equation. If you or a family member have been speaking about having a will drafted, we invite you to call us now for further information! Consultations are always FREE and you will be greatly assisting your family through the eventual grieving process if everything is planned in advance.