Isn’t it surprising how things change with time? For instance, writing your last will was once considered a “taboo”. Today, writing a last will of testament is practical, regardless of age. In fact, many lawyers see it as a mandatory document it serves as a platform about your plans regarding your assets and other important matters.
Take note, however, that wills are legal documents. This means it should comply with all the requirements in terms of structure and format. Making mistakes in the document may have some serious implications in the future. Some of the mistakes people commit when writing a will include:
Including Only Physical Assets
There is no doubt that the present age is a digital one, and hence your assets are not just physical. A majority of people ignore online assets as they are not tangible. However, digital assets could have sentimental or financial value. As a result, be sure to include your digital property; digital photos, passwords, and digital information in your will. Your loved ones will not reap the attached benefits if you omit digital property in your will.
Forgetting the Pet(s)
Pet parents should remember that pets are members of their family just as children. Although the pet may or not experience your loss as your humans, their life could change once you are no more. Pet owners should make provision for the pet(s) in the will. You can leave the pet(s) to a family member or friend. Alternatively, you can organize a pet trust. The pet trust caters to all the pet expenses once the pet owner dies.
Including Your Burial Wishes in the Will
The will is read by the attorney to family and relations weeks after one dies. By the time the will is read, there are chances the funeral is over. The implication is that if there were any funeral wishes in the will, they will be of no effect. That will render all your efforts to write your will futile. Tell your loved ones about your funeral wishes, or better yet write them down in a letter and keep it in a place they can access.
Making Plans for After Your Death
Although the will covers issues that may arise after your death, a will should make provisions for while you are still alive. That makes sense because you may end up living longer than you anticipate, especially if one is sick. You will need other documents to accompany the will, which is known as advance directives. Advance directives are legal instructions that will guide caregivers in case one’s health is deteriorated.
The major question that a will answer is where your belongings go once you are dead. Failing to write a will means that another person will make the decision for you, and chances are they will not meet your wishes. Therefore, it is essential to follow the stipulated procedures and rules when writing your will. Engaging a probate attorney in Utah throughout the will writing process will help you avoid making any mistake, which may cost you in the future.
