Simple Wills

Providing Simple, Effective Wills At A Flat Rate

At Robert L Isaacs & Associates, our attorneys are prepared to help you draft a customized will to help you protect your family’s financial future and make your wishes known for a time when you may not be able to communicate them yourself.

We help many clients draft a simple will—and we do so for an affordable flat fee. With our focus on family law, we know the value of making sure our clients have a legally sound last will and testament for their loved ones’ future. We advise and represent clients throughout Henrico County and the Richmond area.

What Should My Will Include?

A will is the document that identifies your beneficiaries or the people to whom you would like to leave your assets. It also stipulates which assets and property go to which person. The details of a will vary from person to person. However, a basic will should include:

• The names of your inheritors. These could include your spouse, children, parents, friends or anyone else to whom you would like to leave property or money.
• An itemized list of your assets and notable pieces of property.
• Directions regarding which assets should go to which beneficiary.
• The name of a guardian for your minor children, if you have any.
• The name of an executor or the person you trust to handle your estate administration after your death.

Does this list seem overwhelming? That is natural. You can speak with one of our experienced lawyers who will help you understand exactly what to put in your will and how to ensure a court will uphold it. You may be surprised at how affordable it will be to clarify your wishes, protect your family and assets, and achieve the peace of mind that comes with having a clear and enforceable estate plan.

Other Questions About Wills

What Makes a Will Legal?

A will is legally valid when it meets specific requirements based on local laws. You must be of sound mind when writing it, fully understanding the implications of your decisions. The will must be signed in the presence of at least two witnesses who aren’t beneficiaries, and they must sign to confirm they saw you sign it. The language must also be clear and unambiguous to avoid disputes. Without these elements, the will can be contested.

Can I Write My Own Will and Have It Notarized?

Yes, you can write your own will, but notarization alone won’t make it legally valid. Some states allow for self-proving wills, but notarization doesn’t replace the need for witness signatures. Notarizing a will can help speed up probate but doesn't ensure its validity. If writing your own will, consulting a lawyer is recommended to avoid errors and ensure proper documentation.

How Do I Know a Simple Will is Enough?

A simple will works if your estate is straightforward and doesn’t involve complex wishes. If you have modest assets and want to leave everything to your spouse, children, or relatives, a simple will is sufficient. However, if you have more complex wishes, like leaving specific items to certain people or setting up conditions (such as a trust for minor children), a simple will might not be enough. Complex wishes could include gifting assets with special instructions or designating guardianship for children. In such cases, additional legal documents like a trust, power of attorney, or healthcare directives may be necessary. Review your will regularly to ensure it reflects any life changes and that it accounts for your specific wishes.

Who Distributes My Assets After Death?

The executor of your will is responsible for distributing your assets after your death. They ensure debts are paid and assets are divided according to your wishes. After your death, your will goes through probate court, where its validity is confirmed. If you haven't named an executor or your will is contested, the court will decide how your assets are divided. Choosing a trustworthy and organized executor is essential for smooth distribution.

Start Planning Today – Request A Consultation

For a consultation with an experienced simple will attorney, contact our office in Henrico today. To set up your appointment, please call 804-297-0763 or reach out to us online.