When it comes to securing your legacy, it's necessary to have a thoughtfully crafted will. A will provides peace of mind that your final wishes will be honored.
Whether you are new to estate planning or looking to revise an existing will, having a knowledgeable wills and probate attorney to guide you through the process makes all the difference. Dana Jacobson at The Jacobson Law Firm, P.C., located in San Antonio, Texas, provides legal assistance to individuals thinking about the future of their finances and assets.
Dana Jacobson serves clients throughout San Antonio, Central Texas, and South Texas, including Bexar County, Kendall County, Comal County, Guadalupe County, Hays County, Uvalde County, and Medina County. If you're ready to finalize your financial wishes, contact The Jacobson Law Firm, P.C. to schedule a consultation.
What Is a Will?
A will is a legal document that outlines your wishes regarding the distribution of your assets and the care of any minor children upon your death. It is the foundation of any good estate plan, as it ensures your property and belongings are distributed according to your wishes.
There are different types of wills, and each serves its own unique purpose. The most common type is the "last will and testament," which specifies how your estate should be managed and distributed. Other types include living wills, which outline your healthcare wishes should you become incapacitated, and holographic wills, which are handwritten and may not always be legally binding without the proper witnesses and signatures.
A well-drafted will typically includes details about your assets, such as real estate, bank accounts, investments, personal belongings, and digital assets. Additionally, it often names a guardian for minor children and an executor who will manage the estate and distribute your resources according to your wishes.
Understanding the various elements involved in a will allows you to appreciate the importance of having a comprehensive will in place to specify your exact wishes.
Secure Your Legacy
The Process of Creating a Will
Creating a will involves several stages, each critical for your wishes to be accurately documented and legally binding.
At The Jacobson Law Firm, P.C., the process begins with an initial consultation, during which Dana Jacobson will listen to your goals, understand your family dynamics, and gather essential information about your assets.
Next, the drafting and revision phase begins. Dana Jacobson meticulously crafts a will that reflects your wishes and complies with Texas probate law. This phase often involves multiple revisions to verify every detail is accurate and legally sound. The firm emphasizes clear communication and thoroughness to avoid any potential disputes or misunderstandings in the future.
The last step is finalizing and executing the will. This involves signing the document in the presence of witnesses and, in some cases, a notary public. The Jacobson Law Firm ensures that all legal requirements are met, making your will enforceable and valid in court. Their comprehensive approach guarantees that your will is not only legally binding but also crystal clear, leaving no room for ambiguity so you can rest assured your wishes will be met.
Why Having a Will Is Important
Having a will is crucial because, without one, the state decides how your assets are distributed—a process known as dying intestate. In such cases, Texas probate law dictates who inherits your property, which may not align with what you want. This can lead to prolonged legal battles and added stress for your loved ones during an already difficult time.
Probate is the legal process of validating a will and distributing assets under court supervision. While probate can be a straightforward process with a well-drafted will, it can become lengthy and expensive without one. A properly crafted will minimizes the complications, providing a smoother probate process and peace of mind for you and your family.
Commonly Inherited Assets
When drafting a will, be sure to list all assets that you wish to distribute. Commonly inherited assets often include real estate properties, such as family homes or investment properties. These assets hold significant value and often require careful planning to pass them on seamlessly.
Also include financial assets like bank accounts, stocks, bonds, and retirement funds. These assets can significantly impact the financial stability of your beneficiaries and must be allocated with precision. Additionally, personal belongings, such as family heirlooms, jewelry, and collectibles, hold sentimental value that money cannot replace. Properly document these items in your will so they are passed down to those who will cherish them.
Digital assets, including online accounts, cryptocurrencies, and intellectual property, are becoming increasingly important. Your will should also address these modern assets to prevent any confusion or disputes among your beneficiaries.
Difference Between a Will and a Trust
Understanding the difference between a will and a trust is essential for effective estate planning. While both documents help you manage and distribute your assets, they serve different purposes and offer distinct advantages.
A will is a legal document that outlines how your assets should be distributed after your death. It becomes effective only upon your passing and is subject to probate. On the other hand, a trust is a legal entity that holds and manages your assets during your lifetime and after your death. Trusts can bypass the probate process, offering privacy and potentially reducing estate taxes.
Trusts can be more complex and costly to establish than wills. However, they offer greater control over asset distribution and can provide ongoing management for beneficiaries. Consulting with Dana Jacobson can help you determine whether a will, a trust, or a combination of both is best suited for your estate planning needs.
Wills Attorney in San Antonio Texas
Choosing the right attorney for your estate planning needs is crucial. Dana Jacobson at The Jacobson Law Firm, P.C., offers the knowledge and personalized attention necessary to create a comprehensive and legally sound will. He is dedicated to meeting your estate planning with professionalism and care. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing your family's future.