Helping Clients Craft Wills That Meet Their Families’ Needs

Most people are aware that they should have a will, but few take the time to craft a will that truly meets their families’ needs. Every family is unique, and this can create confusion when a loved one dies. Unnecessary contention can strain family relationships and drain an estate to pay for litigation. Furthermore, dying intestate or without a will can leave your estate up to the court to distribute, meaning friends and other loved ones may walk away with nothing.

To best prepare yourself and your family, you should learn about how wills impact you now and in the future. You can also discuss your family circumstances with a skilled Fresno will attorney to determine the best course of action that matches your needs and goals. A trusts/wills lawyer can help through the entire process, from estate planning to guiding the administrator when distributing your assets.

At Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian, we have over 75 years of experience helping clients create estate plans, including drafting wills, trusts, durable power of attorney documents, health care directives, and more. We offer a free consultation so you can get answers at no charge or risk. Call 559-545-0383 to schedule a meeting with an experienced attorney today.

Do I Need a Will in California?

All adult California residents should have a will to provide instructions for how to handle their assets after they die. Having a will can instruct your surviving loved ones on how you wish the inheritance to be distributed. It also names people you choose to fulfill critical roles, such as the executor and a guardian for any minor children.

Without a will, the court system will assign assets and individuals in a way you might not have chosen. Your loved ones may also face a heavier tax burden and higher legal fees if you fail to leave behind a will and other estate planning documents.

Considering your own death might not be a cheerful prospect, but taking the short time necessary to construct a will today can save your family money, time, and hurt feelings in the future. Contact our law firm immediately to get started.

What Are the Important Aspects of a Will?

A will serves many functions. However, for the will to be of any use, it must be created properly according to California law.

Functions of a California Will

Under California law, a valid will may:

• Indicate how to distribute assets to beneficiaries
• Name an executor who will administer the estate
• Name a guardian for minor children
• Designate an individual to manage property on behalf of minor children

Requirements for a Valid Will in California

Certain requirements must be met for a will to be considered valid. If the will is contested, it may be ruled invalid and will not stand up in court.

Some requirements include:

• Testator must be of adult age, or in other words, at least 18 years old
• Testator must be of sound mind, including understanding what they’re doing and acting of their own free will
• Will must be in writing
• Will must be signed by the testator or by another person with permission
• Signing must take place in the presence of two eligible witnesses

Should You Hire Our Wills Lawyer in Fresno?

When you are ready to start your estate plan, creating a will is a wonderful foundation. Our Fresno lawyers are standing by to help with all of your estate planning needs, including revising and revoking previous wills. We understand that life changes may necessitate adjustments to your estate plan, and we promise to stand by your side as we get you to the place you want to be.

Our talented legal team can help with additional documents, including creating a trust, health care directive, living trust, power of attorney, and more. In many cases, we can anticipate your family’s future needs to protect your heirs and provide the legacy you are hoping to leave behind.

If you have questions or are ready to get started, give us a call. We will address your concerns using terms you can understand. Our complete services encompass wills and trusts to give you the guidance you need as you prepare for the future.

Don’t take any risks with so much at stake. Reduce your costs and provide a brighter future for your loved ones by calling Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian for the legal counsel and representation you need. You can reach us at 559-545-0383 today.