A will avoids costs and complications for your heirs when you die. Besides providing instructions about gifts of your property - like your home, car, investments and jewelery - your will can provide instructions for payment of your debts, selection of an executor for your estate, and appointment of a guardian for your children. Without a will, your property will be distributed according to state law and a court may select an administrator for your estate and a guardian for your minor children. Your lawyer can help you prepare a valid will that minimizes taxes and reduces the time and expense of handling your estate.

You should have a will if you own property - a home, car, bank accounts, stocks and bonds, retirement benefits, jewelry, clothing, household goods, and so on. A will lets you distribute your property as you want with a minimum of costs and taxes. It is an opportunity to select an executor for your estate. a guardian for your children, establish trusts and dispense with costly bonds. If you don’t have a will, ask your lawyer about drafting one without delay.