Do You Need a Will?

A Last Will and Testament is an essential estate-planning tool for most people.  It can ensure that your assets will be distributed after your death according to your wishes and greatly simplify the estate administration process.

What is a Will?

A Will is a legal document signed by the testator (i.e. the person making the Will) that directs the distribution of probate assets to heirs after the testator’s death.   Probate assets are those assets held in the person’s name alone, without beneficiary designation or without joint ownership with survivorship rights.  A Will is also the document through which a parent of minor children nominates a guardian for those children.

Who needs a Will?

In general, we recommend that every adult make a Last Will and Testament.  A Will can simplify and lower the cost of the Probate Court experience.  Having a Will is particularly beneficial in the following circumstances:

• If you have assets that you want distributed in a manner not in accord with the Ohio laws of intestacy.
• In order to name a guardian for your minor children.