Can You Do Me a Favor?

I enjoy sharing on a regular basis—Lessons in the Law. The idea is to give you some insight on what you should be thinking about and how to make sure you have a valid estate plan.

Recently I was channel surfing the car radio and came across a program about estate planning. Since I have been working in this area for many years, I always want to hear what other people are saying about estate planning. I heard the presenter mention how the pandemic has caused three major problems in the estate planning area.

First, a recent study has shown that there are more people without wills than people having wills. The problem here is that if you don’t have a will you must then follow your state laws. Your wishes may not be carried out and you may be surprised as to whom may inherit your estate.

Secondly, online wills became the source of many wills. The problem here is that many wills are not properly drafted and more often than not, these wills are not executed properly and witnessed. Therefore, these wills are invalid.

Thirdly, many wills cannot be found. Many people hide their important papers in a safe place that is so safe no one can find them.

Now I ask you to do me a favor.
Please follow the checklist:
 Is my will current and updated?
 Is my will signed in front of two or three witnesses as required by your state?
 Did you tell your family or friends where your will is located?
If you do these three things, chances are your will is valid and can be probated properly upon your death.

Contact your attorney if you have any questions about the validity of your will.
Questions, comments or ideas about future articles—contact John at jurban.gcu@gcuusa.com.

Atty. John J. Urban