Estate planning is how a person expresses their final wishes so that they can be respected and upheld. While many people choose the assistance of a legal professional for this task, the State Bar of Texas has provided another option. Although it may seem odd that an estate planning firm that drafts wills is directing people not to hire an attorney, it is still in line with our belief about how important this document is and why everyone should have some form of an estate plan in place. Furthermore, recognizing whether you are an excellent candidate to use these online forms is as essential as choosing the right attorney to represent you and your wishes. Texas recognized the need and demand for accessible and cost-effective estate planning solutions. Continue reading our blog to learn whether this option is viable for you and your estate.
The Efficacy of DIY Will Forms
The State Bar of Texas’ initiative in providing these forms aims to simplify the will-making process. These forms could be an ideal fit for single and married people without children who have an estate under the federal estate tax exemption (currently set at $12.9 million). For those whose estates exceed that, consider meeting with a legal professional to design a more intricate will and plan.
There are several benefits of using one of these wills. They are economical, eliminating people’s concerns over the high costs. They are also available during the hours most convenient for each person. You can print the forms out here, and if you choose, you can still reach out to an attorney for assistance and advice. They are also designed to be easy to use and are offered in both English and Spanish. There are step-by-step instructions, and most of the form revolves around basic fill-in-the-blanks. When these forms are executed correctly, they hold the same legal weight as one crafted by an attorney.
Other Considerations
If you have a basic estate with all of your assets in Texas and no children, these forms can be a good estate planning option. We want to highlight that estate planning can become more complicated when you have children. However, if you have had all of your children with your current spouse (or you’ve only had one spouse), you may still be able to navigate these forms independently.
If you do decide to embark on the journey of drafting your own will, there are some things you should consider.
- Assemble all pertinent details—beneficiaries’ details, asset lists, and potential executors or witnesses.
- Diligently follow the instructions, ensuring comprehension of each term.
- If you have questions or find something ambiguous, always consider legal consultation.
- After completion, ensure two witnesses attest to it.
- Safekeeping of the will is essential. Its retrieval after your passing should be hassle-free.
Legal Assistance with Estate Planning
If you have additional questions about wills or estate plans, secure your future and peace of mind by getting professional legal assistance. The State Bar of Texas forms are an option but it’s not the only one and not the best one for some people. Contact the Law Offices of Debbie J. Cunningham today to schedule a consultation. Let us learn more about you and your estate planning goals so we can advise you on how to proceed.
Law Offices of Debbie J. Cunningham
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