Make Sure to Avoid These Five Common Mistakes When Writing a Will in North Carolina
Posted by Plyler, Long & Corigliano, LLP | Wills & Estates
Every adult in North Carolina should have a will that is customized to meet their unique needs and objectives. A well-drafted will provides much-needed clarity and legal protection to you and your family. Unfortunately, too many people make avoidable mistakes when they draft their will. Our Monroe estate planning lawyer highlights five relatively common errors that you need to avoid when writing a will in North Carolina.
Mistake #1: Opting for a Do-it-Yourself (DIY) Will
There is no question that do-it-yourself (DIY) projects can be rewarding. However, a will is generally not the right place to focus your DIY energy. A will is a complex, highly technical legal document that is extremely important. Give yourself true peace of mind with a professionally drafted will. A Monroe, NC estate planning lawyer can help you write a will that truly suits your unique situation.
Mistake #2: Forgetting to Sign and Date the Will
A will has to meet certain basic legal standards in order to be legally valid in our state. Under North Carolina law (NC General Statutes § 31-11.6), a will must be signed and dated. It is best to have your will drafted by an attorney who can ensure that it is properly signed, and dated and that all other statutory requirements are met.
Mistake #3: Not Clearly Revoking a Prior Will
You do not want to leave your family dealing with the confusion caused by two contradictory wills. If you have already drafted a will at some point in the past, make sure that you clearly and unequivocally revoke it. There should never be any dispute as to the validity of your will.
Mistake #4: Assuming that a Will is the Right Option for All Estate Planning Needs
A will is an essential estate planning tool. That being said, it is not the right way to pass down property or assets in every situation. There could be advantages to using an alternative option—such as setting up a trust. Consult with an estate planning lawyer who can help you put a comprehensive strategy in place.
Mistake #5: Failing to Review Your Will On a Regular Basis
A will that serves your needs, interests, and goals today may not do so in five years or ten years. Life changes. It is imperative that you review—and if necessary revise—your will on a regular basis. An experienced North Carolina estate planning lawyer can easily make changes to your will to adjust to life’s ever-changing circumstances. You are not stuck with an out-of-date will.
Schedule a Confidential Consultation With a Monroe, NC Estate Planning Lawyer
At Perry, Bundy, Plyler & Long, LLP, our North Carolina estate planning attorney has extensive experience drafting, reviewing, and revising wills. We are here to get you peace of mind through proper estate planning. Contact our law firm today for a completely confidential consultation. With an office in Monroe, we provide estate planning services throughout the region, including in Indian Trail, Matthews, Stalling, Hemby Bridge, Mint Hill, Unionville, Fairview, and New Salem.