Wills & Estate Planning

The Imporance of Having a Will

If you have children, own property, were recently married or divorced, or wish to make a special bequest to a loved one, you should make or update your will. Moyer Law Office can help you with this process to ensure that your will explicitly states your wishes.

A will is a legal document that can include details such as who (known as the beneficiaries) will inherit what property and money from you, who will take care of your underage children, and what to do with your remains after your death. Making a will is very important, for if you don't create one and you pass away, it will be up to the State of Rhode Island to decide what will happen to your property and who will care for your children.

It is important that you update your will on a regular basis so that your will constantly reflects the state of your life's affairs.

Examples of reasons for updating a will:

Marriage and children: You may want to stipulate exactly how much you'd like your spouse and children to receive. If you have a new baby or stepchild, you will want to ensure that all of your children are included in your will. You may also want to name legal guardians for your underage children.

Divorce: You may want to remove the name of your ex-spouse from your will. If you are in a relationship and are not married, or if you are in a registered domestic partnership with that person, he or she will not inherit anything from you after you pass away unless they are included in your will.

You acquire or dispose of a substantial asset: For example, if you've acquired a new house, you will want to make sure that this asset is included in your will.

At Moyer Law Office, our experience and expertise with drafting wills often enable our clients to reduce or eliminate death taxes and avoid probate. If you would like legal advice or assistance with drafting your will, one of our attorneys at Moyer Law Office can help you.