If you are thinking about making a Will, you may feel a little uneasy about the process. We can help. The following is a quick outline of some steps involved in making a Massachusetts Will:
1. Take an inventory of all your assets and property. Two examples of the many assets that might not always be considered are retirement plans and life insurance policies.
2. Decide who will inherit personal property. We will explain how to distinguish personal property from other property.
3. Name any persons that will inherit any specific items of property such as jewelry and collections. There is a stress free way to handle this step that we can show you.
4. Remember to consider alternative beneficiaries. Who would get your property if a child or another listed beneficiary predeceased you?
5. Name and omit any person that should be disinherited or that may contest the Will. If necessary, we can word this so as not to offend anyone.
6. Choose a trusted executor and an alternative to handle the estate.
7. Choose a trusted guardian and alternative for the person and property of any children.
8. A Will must be formally signed in front of the correct amount of witnesses and a notary to be legal. To further protect the estate, the will should also be "self proving."
9. Let the executor know the location of the safely stored Will. Unless certain steps are taken, a safe deposit box may not be the best place to store a will.
We are eager to help with any of your legal matters. For friendly, helpful, hassle free service, please call us at 781-816-9001 to make an appointment.