A will allows you to decide how your assets will be distributed after you’re gone. However, incomplete or unclear wills can result in confusion and other unintended consequences. To ensure your wishes are respected, estate planning lawyers recommend including the following provisions.

What to Include in Your Will

1. A Detailed List of Your Assets

Leaving each beneficiary a percentage of your assets may seem like the simplest approach. However, this method may cause confusion and disagreements over who receives specific items, especially if family heirlooms are involved. Creating a detailed list of your assets and leaving each to a specific beneficiary will prevent legal challenges and clarify your wishes, as everyone involved will have a better understanding of what they’re receiving.

2. A Guardian for Your Child

If something were to happen to you and your spouse, who would care for your child? While you may prefer to give the responsibility to a trusted friend, the court will usually appoint a close family member, regardless of the quality of their relationship with you. Naming a guardian in your will provides you with a voice in this critical decision.

3. An Executor

An executor is the individual tasked with carrying out the instructions in the will, closing your bank accounts, and paying off any outstanding debts. Because this role involves so much responsibility, many people choose to give this role to their estate planning lawyer.

Writing a will can be a confusing, frustrating process, but the lawyers at The Finkelstein Law Firm in Goshen, NY, are ready to eliminate the stress of preparing an estate plan. They’ve been serving the Hudson Valley for over 20 years, guiding clients through the complexities of the legal process. Visit their website for more on their estate planning services or call (845) 294-9003 to consult with an experienced lawyer today.