Creating a simple will helps you decide how your property will be handled after your passing. While it gives you control, there are limits on what you can include. Knowing which assets you can and cannot place in a will helps avoid confusion for your loved ones....
Simple Wills
Can you leave gifts to charities in a simple will?
In Virginia, a simple will gives you the ability to do more than distribute assets to loved ones. It also allows you to direct part of your estate to charitable organizations. If you support a specific cause, you can include that nonprofit in your estate plans through...
Ways to give to charity in your estate plan
Including charitable giving in your estate plan is a meaningful way to support causes you care about. In Virginia, there are several simple ways to leave a lasting impact with your estate. Whether you want to give to a local nonprofit or a national organization, your...
3 reasons some people put off drafting a will
It's not uncommon for people to put off making a will. They wait until they are older to draft one, which can be risky, as anything can happen at any time. So, if having a will is significantly advantageous, why do some people postpone it? Here are three common...
High school graduates: You need a simple will
Graduating high school is an exciting milestone that marks the beginning of independence and adulthood. While most young adults focus on college plans, career goals and newfound freedom after high school, one important task often gets overlooked: creating a simple...
When is it appropriate to draft a codicil instead of a new will?
If you've taken the critical step of drafting your will, congratulations! You're ahead of the game and have taken a crucial step in securing your estate and loved ones. But here's the thing: creating a will might not be a one-and-done task. Life often throws...
Do Virginia courts always honor extremely old wills?
In Virginia, the legal system places significant importance on honoring the intentions of deceased individuals as expressed in their wills. Whether the court will follow an old will depends on various factors, including the will’s validity and adherence to current...
College students: Why you need to draft a simple will
Estate planning might not be the first thing on your mind as a college student, but it’s an effort worth making. It can serve as an important step in clarifying your wishes, so that they will be respected should anything happen to you. While it’s easy to assume that...
Mirror wills versus mutual wills for couples: What to know
A lot of couples want very simple wills. They simply want their surviving spouse to inherit everything, and for their adult children to inherit whatever is left when the surviving spouse eventually passes. Two common options for couples in this situation are mirror...
What are the duties of an executor?
It's an honor if someone wishes to name you the executor of their estate after they die. That person considers you responsible and trustworthy. Still, you should take some time to think and determine if this is a role you wish to take on. The role and responsibilities...
