Whether notarization or witnesses are needed to make a will official will depend on the state where the will maker lives. Additionally, the amount of witnesses needed at a will signing will also vary from one state to another. Many states just require 2 witnesses to be there as a will maker signs the will […]
Widerman Malek Law Blog
Things to include in your will
There comes a time when we all have to think about the inevitable; what will we leave our loved ones when we pass away. Whether or not you have a large estate to divide up or just a few treasured family heirlooms, it takes some careful consideration who will receive what and how to ensure […]
How to Contest a Will
Here’s the scenario. Your father remarried after your mother passed away. His new wife has two children from a previous marriage. It appears she discourages your father from maintaining a relationship with you and your siblings, but is encouraging him to interact with her children. Something just seems unusual about his behavior. You feel your […]
IS MY POWER OF ATTORNEY STILL VALID?
Many people consider the importance of a will as part of their estate plan but never stop to consider the need for a valid Power of Attorney. A power of attorney is a legal document that allows you to choose another person (agent) to transact on your behalf. It is considered wise to also choose […]
What’s the Process for Making Changes to a Will?
Life changes, we all know that. What you set forth in your will when you first arrange it may not still be what you want down the road. People leave your life for various reasons; assets change; and needs adjust. Your last will and testament is not set in stone the minute that you make […]
What’s the Process for Making Changes to a Will?
Life changes, we all know that. What you set forth in your will when you first arrange it may not still be what you want down the road. People leave your life for various reasons; assets change; and needs adjust. Your last will and testament is not set in stone the minute that you make […]
What is the process of settling an estate without a will?
Having a will prepared is something most people think about at some point in their life. Many people think they need to have a substantial amount of wealth to have a will. Or they think they need to own property to have a will. And what about your minor children; do you need a will […]
How a Will is Executed
A will is something many of us think about, but may not understand how to start. Did you know that in most states if there is no will, your state’s laws will determine how your estate is divided up? When there are no living relatives, any assets may go right to your state. This whole […]
If It’s Unusual, It ‘Will’ Be Contested
For many, the last will and testament is a chance to make a statement about those who have stood by them and those who haven’t. There have been some truly unusual wills that have gone through the probate process. It would seem, the more unusual the will, the more certain it will be contested. Take […]
Undue Influence: How do you Find Out?
If you have ever heard a story that talks about someone that was shocked to learn of a loved one’s intentions in their will after they have passed, you might have been witness to undue influence. This nasty and hurtful process involves a less than well-meaning person using his influence over a supposed loved one […]