Simple Wills Attorney in Chandler, Arizona

Creating a will is an important step in preparing for the future. It ensures that your loved ones will be taken care of, and your wishes will be honored after you’re gone. At Robert J. Weber, P.C., I’m here to help Arizona clients draft simple wills that fit their unique needs and goals. 

Also known as a basic will, a simple will is a legal document that specifies how your assets will be distributed after your death. It allows you to: 

• Name beneficiaries for your property and assets. 

• Appoint guardians for your minor children. 

• Designate an executor to manage your estate and ensure your wishes are carried out. 

• Provide instructions for the care of any pets. 

• Specify your preferences for funeral and burial arrangements. 

• Make charitable donations by allocating portions of your estate to chosen organizations. 

If you want to create a simple will in Chandler, the East Valley, Phoenix, Mesa, Gilbert, Tempe, or Pinal County or have questions about estate planning, call Robert J. Weber, P.C., located in Chander, Arizona, to schedule a consultation. 

Benefits of Having a Simple Will 

A simple will is straightforward and avoids complicated provisions or legal jargon. It is an important tool for anyone who wants to make their wishes clear and protect their family’s future.  

Having a will in place offers several more benefits: 

Peace of Mind 

Knowing that your wishes are documented and legally binding can give you peace of mind. You can rest easy knowing your loved ones will be taken care of according to your wishes. 

Avoiding Intestacy 

If you pass away without a will, your estate will be distributed according to Arizona’s intestacy laws. Your assets may not go to the people you would have chosen. A will allows you to control who inherits your property. 

Minimizing Family Disputes 

A clear and legally binding will can prevent family disputes over your estate. It provides clear instructions on how your assets should be divided, reducing the likelihood of conflicts among your loved ones. 

Protecting Minor Children 

If you have minor children, a simple will allows you to appoint guardians to take care of them in the event of your passing. Your children will be cared for by someone you trust. 

Streamlined Probate Process 

A well-drafted simple will streamlines the probate process, making it easier and faster for your executor to administer your estate. This reduces the legal and administrative burden on your loved ones. 

Tax Advantages 

In some cases, a simple will can provide tax advantages for your estate. By specifying how your assets are to be distributed, you can reduce estate taxes and ensure that more of your wealth goes to your beneficiaries.

Process of Drafting a Simple Will 

Here are the steps I follow to create a comprehensive and customized will for my clients: 

1. Initial Consultation 

During this meeting, we will discuss your needs, concerns, and goals. I shall gather information about your assets, family members, and any specific wishes you may have. Unlike other attorneys, I believe in meeting personally to better understand your situation. 

2. Drafting the Will 

Using the information gathered, I will draft a will that reflects your wishes and meets all legal requirements. This process involves selecting beneficiaries, appointing guardians if necessary, and naming an executor. 

3. Reviewing the Will 

Once the draft is ready, we will review it together to make sure it represents your wishes. We can also make any revisions to address your concerns or preferences. 

4. Signing and Witnessing 

After finalizing the will, you will sign it in the presence of witnesses. This step validates the document and makes it legally binding. 

5. Storing the Will 

I recommend storing the original will in a safe place, such as a fireproof safe or with a trusted family member. It is a good idea to keep copies with your attorney and executor. 

Drafting a Will in Arizona 

Wills in Arizona must adhere to specific laws to remain legally valid and enforceable. Here are some points to keep in mind: 

Age and mental capacity: In Arizona, you must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind to create a will. You must understand the nature of your assets and the impact of your decisions. 

Written and signed: A will must be in writing and signed by you (the testator) or by someone else in your presence and at your direction. It must also be signed by at least two witnesses who are not beneficiaries of the will. 

Holographic wills: Arizona recognizes holographic wills, which are handwritten and signed by the testator. These wills do not require witnesses but must clearly show the testator’s intentions and be written entirely in their handwriting. 

Revoking or amending a will: You can revoke or amend your will at any time by creating a new one or adding a codicil (an amendment) to an existing one. You should regularly review your will so that it reflects your current wishes and circumstances.