Creating a will is an essential step in estate planning that ensures your loved ones are taken care of after you pass away. However, many people put off creating a will because they believe they have plenty of time to do so. Unfortunately, life is unpredictable, and it's never too early to start thinking about the future.
At Heritage Law Office, our experienced attorneys understand the importance of creating a will and will work with you to ensure your wishes are carried out. We provide comprehensive estate planning services in Wisconsin, including wills, trusts, and probate administration.
What is a Will?
A will is a legal document that outlines how you want your assets distributed after you pass away. Your will can also name guardians for minor children, specify funeral arrangements, and appoint an executor to manage your estate.
Without a will, your assets will be distributed according to Wisconsin's intestacy laws, which may not align with your wishes. Additionally, without a named guardian, the court will decide who cares for your minor children.
Understanding the Benefits of a Will
Creating a will has several benefits, including:
- Ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes
- Naming guardians for minor children
- Appointing an executor to manage your estate
- Minimizing the likelihood of disputes between family members
- Streamlining the probate process
The Importance of Estate Planning
Estate planning involves more than just creating a will. It also includes establishing trusts, naming beneficiaries, and planning for incapacity.
Our knowledgeable attorneys can assist you in creating a comprehensive estate plan that meets your unique needs. We understand the complexities of Wisconsin estate law and will work with you to ensure your wishes are carried out.
Contact a Wills Attorney in Wisconsin
At Heritage Law Office, our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping clients create estate plans that protect their loved ones and assets. Whether you need to create a will, establish a trust, or navigate the probate process, we are here to help.
Contact us online or at 414-253-8500 to schedule a free consultation today. Our team will review your needs and provide an outline of your best options, including the creation of an irrevocable trust.
Cities We Serve
Our law firm serves clients throughout Wisconsin, including the following cities:
- Milwaukee
- Madison
- Green Bay
- Kenosha
- Racine
- Appleton
- Waukesha
- Oshkosh
- Eau Claire
- Janesville
- Mequon
- Elm Grove
- Fox Point
- Bayside
- Shorewood
- Whitefish Bay
- Fitchburg
- Brookfield
- Waunakee
- Cedarburg
We also offer remote, phone, and online appointments, so you can receive our services wherever you are. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you with your estate planning needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why should I have a will?
Having a will is crucial for a few reasons. First, it allows you to dictate how your assets will be distributed upon your death. Without a will, the state's intestacy laws decide these matters, which may not align with your wishes. Secondly, a will enables you to name a guardian for your minor children. Without a named guardian, the court will decide who looks after your children. Lastly, a will can help streamline the probate process and minimize potential disputes between family members.
2. What is the role of an executor in a will?
The executor of a will has the responsibility of administering the estate according to the deceased person's wishes as outlined in the will. This includes paying off debts, distributing assets, filing tax returns, and more. The executor plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth probate process and that the assets are correctly distributed to the beneficiaries.
3. What happens if I die without a will in Wisconsin?
If you pass away without a will (intestate) in Wisconsin, your assets will be distributed according to the state's intestacy laws. This usually means that your closest relatives, like your spouse or children, will inherit your assets. However, this may not reflect your actual wishes, which is why having a will is recommended.
4. What other estate planning services do you offer?
Aside from will creation, Heritage Law Office provides comprehensive estate planning services, including trusts establishment, beneficiaries naming, and incapacity planning. We understand that estate planning goes beyond just having a will—it's about ensuring your wishes are honored, your loved ones are cared for, and your assets are protected.
5. How can I contact Heritage Law Office for a consultation?
You can reach Heritage Law Office by contacting us online or at 414-253-8500. We offer a free consultation, where we'll review your needs and provide an outline of your best options. We serve clients throughout Wisconsin and also offer remote, phone, and online appointments for your convenience.