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Wills Lawyer in Pittsburgh
Regardless of age or circumstance, the significance of having a will cannot be overstated. A will serves as a crucial document that not only outlines how one's assets and possessions are distributed after death but also ensures that one's wishes are respected and executed with precision. It provides a sense of security and clarity, offering peace of mind not just for the individual drafting it, but also for their loved ones. From safeguarding assets to appointing guardians for dependents, a will stands as a testament to responsible planning and consideration for the future, making it an indispensable tool for individuals of all ages.
Are you considering estate planning and drafting a will to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes? This is one of the most important legal matters a person can undertake. If you’re ready to secure your estate and ensure your family member or members are cared for in the event of your passing, book a free consultation with our reputable wills lawyer in Pittsburgh. We help clients create a comprehensive will that distributes your assets in a way that aligns with your desires.
Why Do You Need an Experienced Wills Lawyer for Your Estate Planning in Pittsburgh?
If you inadvertently create an invalid will, you risk the distribution of your estate assets against your wishes. You won't be able to correct your mistakes as you will no longer be here during the probate process. The probate court will distribute your assets according to state intestate laws, which likely do not align with your intentions.
Writing a valid will that reflects your wishes is a complex task and includes many challenges:
Fulfilling Legal Requirements
To create a valid will in Pittsburgh, you must meet some requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind.
- Your will must not be in an electronic format, like video, audio, or any other digital form. It must be on a hard copy. While you can use a computer to draft your will, the final version must be on paper.
- To finalize your will, you must sign it at the end. Pennsylvania law doesn't require you to have witnesses at the time of signing your will. But after you die, your executor needs witness testimonies to prove your will (probate) to the court.
- If you have a self-proving will, the probate law court can accept it without witnesses' testimonies and make the process hassle-free. To make your will self-proving, you must finalize your will signing in front of two witnesses. Furthermore, the three of you must sign an affidavit in the presence of a notary. The affidavit states who you are and confirms you signed the will before these two witnesses.
Asset Distribution
The asset distribution becomes complex when you have:
- Multiple beneficiaries
- Many assets with different types of (i.e. real estate, investments, businesses)
- Specific instructions for each beneficiary for asset distribution
Example of many assets with different types:
Every asset has a different distribution treatment. In the case of business, it becomes challenging to decide how to distribute ownership and control among your beneficiaries. So, it continues to operate according to your wishes.
Tax Implications
Creating a will also involves considering tax implications. If you fail to consider them, they could result in unnecessary taxes and likely affect your beneficiaries' finances significantly.
At Very Law, our Pittsburgh wills lawyers understand all aspects of estate planning law and have experience in creating a valid will that outlines your wishes.
Why Create a Will
- It allows you to distribute your wealth according to your wishes and ensure the well-being of your loved ones after your demise.
- It helps avoid disputes, confusion, and unnecessary stress among your family during difficult times.
Why Choose Very Law for Creating Your Will
Very Law has assisted numerous Western Pennsylvania residents in drafting comprehensive estate planning documents that clearly communicate their wishes and in probate administration. We can also help you craft a valid will that meets your needs.
Our wills lawyers understand the intricacies of writing a will and its probate and estate administration process.
When you come to Very Law, you will not feel like every other Pittsburgh elder law firm. Instead, you find our whole staff compassionate and dedicated to helping you with your needs. Furthermore, our will lawyers provide personalized legal services tailored to your needs, as every will case is unique.
Listen to what Pittsburgh residents have to say about our elder law services:
Very Honest Legal Practice: I met with Attorney VK and was impressed with his honesty and professionalism. I left his office feeling better than I did when I walked in. - CJ
Contact us today to discuss your situation and learn more about our estate planning services. We can help you create a thorough estate plan.