A final will and testament is an important estate planning document that every adult should have. By creating one, you help ensure that your property and assets can be passed down to your loved ones the exact way that you want them to receive it.
In this blog, we will discuss three commonly asked questions about wills in Virginia:
What are the legal requirements for creating a will?
In Virginia, any competent adult who is at least 18 years of age or older can create a will. In order for your legal document to be valid, it must be prepared in writing and be signed in front of two competent witnesses.
After you sign your will, your witnesses must also sign it. While Virginia law does not require notarization of wills, it can help enhance the credibility of your document.
Do wills have expiration dates?
No, they do not carry expiration dates. The only time your will can lose its validity is if you revoke it by physically destroying your document or if you create a new one.
However, it is important to remember that significant life events can revoke your will, such as marriage. For example, you made your will back when you were still in college. After a few years, you meet someone special and decide to get married. Under Virginia law, your will is revoked automatically.
Can I update my will?
Yes, you can modify your will or create a new one as long as you do it voluntarily. Ideally, your document must be updated when you relocate to a new state or country, increase or decrease your list of assets, remarry, adopt a child or stepchild, and experience a death in your family.
By regularly checking and updating your will, you help ensure that your document’s contents are up-to-date and aligns with your personal goals for the future.
A will is important for everybody
Every person deserves to leave this world with grace. With the right guidance, you can prepare your will with efficiency and feel reassured that your family can honor your final wishes upon your passing.
