The Importance of Having a Will: What Happens If You Die Without One?

April 25, 2023

The Importance of Having a Will: What Happens If You Die Without One?

Death is not something people like to think about, but it is an inevitable event that everyone will experience at some point in their lives. While planning for death may not be something that people look forward to doing, it is crucial to have a plan in place for what happens to your assets when you pass away. Without a will, your assets could end up in the wrong hands or be distributed in a way that is not in line with your wishes. In this blog post, we will discuss what happens if you die without a will and the steps involved in drafting one.

What happens if I die without a will?

 If you die without a will, the state will be responsible for dividing your assets based on the laws of intestate succession. This means your assets will be distributed to your surviving family members in a predetermined order. The problem with this is that the predetermined order may not be in line with your wishes. For example, if you have children from a previous marriage, they may not receive any of your assets if the laws of intestate succession do not include them as part of your immediate family. This is why it's important to have a will in place to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes.

Steps involved in drafting a will


The first step in drafting a will is to compile a list of your assets and their approximate values. This will give you an idea of what you want to leave to whom. Next, it's important to select an executor to carry out your wishes after you pass away. This can be a family member or a trusted friend. It's also important to select a guardian for any minor children you may have. Once you have made these decisions, it's time to consult with an attorney who can help you draft a legally binding will that ensures your wishes are carried out.
At Frank E. Stepnowski Law, P.C. we can assist the California public with estate planning matters. Ensuring that your final wishes are carried out after you pass away is an essential part of estate planning. At Frank E. Stepnowski Law, P.C. we specialize in estate planning matters and can help you draft a legally binding will that protects your assets and ensures your family is taken care of. Our attorneys are experienced in all aspects of estate planning, from drafting wills to establishing trusts and handling probate matters. We work closely with our clients to ensure that their final wishes are carried out.
In conclusion, death is not an easy topic to discuss, but it is essential to plan for what happens to your assets when you pass away. Without a legally binding will, your assets could end up in the wrong hands or be distributed in a way that is not in line with your wishes. At Frank E. Stepnowski Law, P.C. we understand the complexities of estate planning and can help you draft a will that protects your assets and ensures your wishes are carried out. Don't wait until it's too late, contact us today to schedule a consultation and start planning for your future.

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