What Is A Will?
A Will is a document that says what you want done with your property when you die. It can also be used for special instructions that you would like people to carry out after you are gone, like who is to be the guardian of your children and what should be done with your remains.
What Happens To My Minor Children And Property If I Die Without A Will?
Your Will can designate who you want to be the guardian of your minor children. Although this does not guarantee that the person you name will be named as guardian, the courts will usually agree to the choice you have made. Without a Will, the courts are totally without guidance as to who should be the guardian and may pick someone you do not want.
What Happens If I Die Without A Will?
If you die without a Will (called dying intestate), Arizona has laws that specify exactly who will get your property. It does not matter what you wanted, what you told people, or what you may have written down. Without a properly prepared Will, your property must go to the people specified in the statutes.
Are There Limitations On Who I Can Give My Property To In A Will?
There are no limitations as to what you can do with your property after your death in a Will. You name a personal representative (executor) in the Will whose job it will be to make sure the wishes expressed in your Will are followed.
Can I Provide For My Minor Children In A Will?
Yes. Not only can you leave specific property to your children you can nominate who you want to be their guardian. While this does not guarantee the appointment of your named guardian, the courts in most cases will agree to the choice of guardian you made in your Will.
What Is Probate?
Probate is the court procedure whereby your personal representative distributes the property you own at your death according to the terms of your Will. Generally the probate process involves collecting your assets, paying your bills, and distributing your property to the people or organizations named in your Will. Your personal representative will hire an attorney like Harold E. Campbell experienced in this area to guide him through this process.
What Is A Living Will?
A Living Will is a document that tells your doctors and hospitals whether you want to be kept alive by artificial means in the event of a serious illness. Harold E. Campbell will go over all your different alternatives and will help you prepare a living will that exactly meets your needs.
How Often Do I Need To Do A Will?
A Will is good for a lifetime but if there are major changes to your lifestyle, you may want to change your Will also. For instance, if you remarry, you may want your estate to go to your new spouse instead of your former spouse.
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