It’s natural, especially as you get older, to think about who you will want to inherit your assets after you die. While you might not particularly like to think about death, it’s an inevitable event for everyone, which is why it’s helpful to understand the importance of preparing a California estate plan. Within your plan, two key documents might be wills and trusts.
When you execute a last will and testament, you can specify who you want to inherit your property and other assets. If you die without signing a will, your estate is considered intestate. This means that a probate court judge will determine who gets according to state statutes, which may not have the same results as if you yourself had chosen beneficiaries.
Integral components of a last will and testament
In addition to listing who you would like to inherit your assets, there are other important issues you can address in a will. For instance, if you have minor children, you can designate a guardian to care for them if you should die or become incapacitated. You can also specify how you want your debts or taxes to be paid.
Avoid errors by enlisting legal support
It’s critical to pay attention to detail and to cover all bases when you’re developing an estate plan, particularly regarding your last will and testament. An oversight or error can cause a lot of problems, especially for your loved ones and beneficiaries. At the Law Office of Raoul J. LeClerc, in California, you can seek guidance and support from the start, to ensure that your last will and testament, as well as your whole estate plan, is solid, valid and enforceable.