Re: Public Service Announcement

I guess it depends on if you want to be sure you have everything firmly in place, uncontestable. Depending on amount of estate there may be tax issues you could avoid with the right plan in place. I sure wouldn't risk it. I'd imagine if you do your own with no legal advice, it would be very easy for any family member who isn't left what they believe they should have to contest it. Then the estate would have to pay for legal work (I would think) to defend the will - and that could take up considerable funds. At least get a consultation with an estate attorney. First consultations are usually free aren't they, Sandi? They could at least point out the pros and cons of going various routes. There are all kinds of things the average person would never think of that could be benefits or risks. LIke a person could leave money to a benevolent institution, but direct that the interest on it go to benificiary for X time or for their lifetime.

Judity wrote:
Bambi, I'm curious. After buying online the living will, living trust
agreement, and will kits, I've hesitated about filling them out. Do
you know if I need witnesses or can I just bring them to a notary
public place or something? I suppose I could spend a small fortune
going to a lawyer, but is there another way to do this?

What I really want is to avoid my very small estate having to go
through the lengthy probate process with legal fees eating up what I am
leaving. Any ideas on this?

Judity
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