Many people believe their estate will automatically go to their spouse upon their demise. As simple and reasonable as that may sound, the truth is far different. The harsh truth is that if you pass away without a will in place, the state of Georgia, not you, will decide what becomes of your assets and belongings.
More than your bequest to your spouse will be affected if you pass away without a will. The state might also step in and determine the best guardians for your minor children. Additionally, the state will control the portion of your estate they assign to your minor children. In other words, without clear directions from you, state law will simply take over. Wouldn’t you prefer to be the person who makes those critical decisions?
If you die without a will in place, The Georgia Intestacy Statute allows the court to divide your assets among your surviving spouse and children. This is true even if your children are not the biological offspring of your spouse. The prevalence of blended families in today’s households may mean this arbitrary division of your assets does not express your preferences. The only way to ensure your assets go where you want them to go – and that any minor children you have are placed in the care and guardianship of people you select – is to make certain you have a will in place. Simply put, having a valid, properly executed will makes the administration of your estate less frustrating and stressful for your surviving family.
Many people fail to prepare a will because they wrongly assume the probate process only takes place if they have a will and that it will be lengthy and expensive. In fact, probate may be necessary if no will is in place or with a will in place; however, with a will in place, probate is typically a faster, and less expensive process. In fact, the probate process is made more difficult and time-consuming in the absence of a formal will. Save your family from frustration and stress by putting a will in place. Call the estate planning attorneys at Grissom Law, LLC today at 678-781-9230. One phone call can save months of hassle and aggravation for your family. In addition to distributing your assets according to your wishes, the will we prepare for you gives your family clear directions and helps maintain family accord when it’s needed most.
Disclaimer
This Blog/Web Site is made available for educational purposes only as well as to give you general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide legal advice. By using this blog site you understand that there is no attorney client relationship between you and Grissom Law, LLC.