A will is a time-honored tool by which an individual expresses desires about how assets will be distributed after death. Some people currently think a will is something to be avoided, because they believe that by placing all assets in a trust instead, they can "avoid probate," which they have been led to believe is expensive and time-consuming.
In fact, even if you have trusts in place, you will need a "pour over" will at the very least, to account for any assets that have not been assigned to a trust — for example, insurance benefits that are paid near the end of life, proceeds from a lawsuit or assets that were overlooked when the trust was set up. Stocks and bonds, inheritances, antiques and collectibles are all examples of assets that may have been left out of a trust.
Clients of Crawford & Crawford, LLP, Attorneys at Law, approach our estate planning lawyers with needs including the following:
- They have wills that may be outdated or were drafted in other states, and they want them to be reviewed and used as a basis for a new will.
- They have wills that may not have been properly signed — and may be invalid.
- They are young, have never had a will and understand the importance of having a will.
- A family member has died, and there is some question about a will or wills left behind by the person. They often ask our law firm to handle probate and estate administration and to advise the family on trust administration.
- A will contest is likely, or is already underway because family members, business partners, creditors, and/or potential beneficiaries are raising objections.
Our Raleigh will lawyers are well qualified to address all of these issues and other matters related to wills in North Carolina. We can help you and your spouse create comprehensive estate planning documents including wills, trusts, powers of attorney and healthcare powers of attorney. Contact us to schedule a consultation.
North Carolina Will and Trust Attorneys
Our estate planning lawyers provide skilled representation through any phase of the estate management and asset protection process. We draft, review and revise wills. We handle probate thoroughly and efficiently. Our trial attorneys are prepared to represent either plaintiff or defendant in a will contest or other type of estate litigation. Your best interests will be our top priority when we counsel and represent you. Contact us to schedule a consultation with a Raleigh will lawyer regarding wills, living wills or powers of attorney in North Carolina.
