What makes a will valid and enforceable in New York?

last will and testament

One of the most important things a person can do is plan for the future. Although it can be difficult to think about, you must plan for when you will pass away. Estate planning is a gift you give to your loved ones. Having these documents completed takes the stress off of your family while they suffer your loss and allow them to focus on healing. That said, for your will to be considered valid and enforceable in the eyes of the law, it must meet several standards. An experienced and compassionate attorney can guide you through this process and ensure your will is valid and enforceable. Contact a Putnam County wills attorney from the Law Office of Andres D. Gil today.

Why do I need a will?

Do you have an idea of what your estate would look like after you pass? Drafting a will is a way to document how you want your estate to function without you. This is an important investment to make. When a will is not drafted, the court will appoint an administrator to distribute assets. This could be problematic. It might not necessarily be proportioned to your desires. It could lead to problematic conflict within your family. You would not choose your executor. There could be further complications regarding taxes and costs as well. You want to avoid this and can by drafting a will.

What makes a will valid and enforceable?

Laws governing the drafting of a will can vary by state. In NY, laws require the person writing the will to be at least 18 years old. Secondly, the law requires that the executor is of sound mind. The will must be signed at the end. It is further required that it is signed in the presence of two witnesses. These witnesses must attest to the signature within 30 days. They also must sign their own names and addresses at the end of the will. As long as you enlist the services of a competent attorney to draft your will, you can have peace of mind knowing your will is valid and enforceable in the eyes of the law.

If you are thinking about being proactive about what will happen to your estate after you pass, you should consider creating a will with the help of a trusted attorney. Contact the Law Offices of Andres D. Gil to schedule a consultation.

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