LOUISVILLE WILLS ATTORNEY
Comprehensive, Individualized Estate Planning
Do you need a will? Your family may know your wishes, but unless they are written, they do not have the force of law. Without a will, your assets will be divided according to Kentucky's descent and distribution law, perhaps with unintended consequences.
Distribution of assets to intended heirs is only one reason why every person should have a will. A properly drafted will offers protection and assurance, anticipates illness or mental incapacity, avoids death taxes, and minimizes disputes between family members.
Let Us Help You Gain
Peace of Mind
Protect your family and your legacy with a last will & testament
Last Will &
Testaments
By your last will and testament, you direct who will receive your assets and property after your death and name an executor to probate your estate. A properly drafted will gives your executor the power to sell real property. If a power of sale is not included in the will, the representative may need to get a probate court order to complete any real estate transactions.
Many residents of Kentucky and Indiana do not realize that if they die without a properly executed will, their estate will be devised according to state statutes and will probably not go directly to their spouses.
In your last will and testament, you can also designate the guardian for any minor or children. Many people find this to be the most important aspect of the document. Your will can also include a trust so that your children do not get control of the estate until they reach a certain age (i.e. 23 or 25 years old).
Updating An Existing Will
Your will should be amended periodically, especially after a major life event such as a divorce or remarriage, or death of an heir.
Revoking a previously drafted will without consulting a lawyer can result in later disputes in probate court. Holographic wills (hand-written) are recognized in Kentucky; the entire will must be in the testator’s handwriting and signed by the testator.
Components of a Will
We draft a comprehensive estate plan that includes:
Your last will and testament, including codicils (updates to existing wills), to designate heirs and express other intentions
Trusts to manage and preserve assets
A living will or health care directive for doctors and family members regarding life support measures
A health care power of attorney enabling loved ones to make medical decisions on your behalf (surgery, nursing care, medications, etc.)
Durable power of attorney in event of incapacity
Clients often ask if a "do-it-yourself" will kit is sufficient. The truth is, those forms are not state-specific and may not be recognized in Kentucky. If you have few assets, we can draft a simple will that addresses specific scenarios under Kentucky law, at minimal cost.
Living Wills / Health Care Directives
In a living will/health care directive, you can express your wishes regarding end-of-life care. You can also explain what types of medical treatment you would want if you were unable to speak for yourself.
EXPERIENCED
Louisville Probate Attorneys
Wills & Estate Planning
Get peace of mind by preparing or updating a will today with the help of the English Law Group.
Contact the estate planning attorneys of The English Law Group, P.S.C. to arrange your initial consultation.