Will Preparation in Dover, Delaware

Find the right Will Preparation attorney in Dover, DE

In Dover, Delaware, many of the dilemmas that sometimes come with a will, such as would-be beneficiaries challenging its validity, or devises which don't make it clear who gets what (resulting in costly and time-consuming litigation) can be avoided if the will is well-drafted in the first place.

Typically, the larger your estate, and the more separate devises you want to make, the more complex the process of drafting your will is going to be. For most people, however, the process can be fairly simple.

However even with "simple" wills, some easily-avoidable problems come up more commonly than they need to. A seasoned Dover, Delaware attorney can help you avoid these problems with careful will preparation.

Many problems with wills are due to some of the standard formalities not being followed. The formalities incorporated in drafting and executing a will are not particularly convoluted, but they must be scrupulously followed. Otherwise, the will might not be given effect. In most states, the will must include some clear statement that the document is, in fact, the last will and testament of the person making it. It normally must also be witnessed and signed by at least 2 people who do not have any stake in the will.

Holographic Wills in Dover, Delaware

In some (but definitely not all) states, "holographic wills" can sometimes be treated as valid wills. A holographic will is just a will that is written exclusively in the testator's own handwriting. They do not need to be witnessed in order to be valid.

Holographic wills are usually construed very broadly. Knowing that it was not written by an expert, a court will normally look at the common definition of words, and use other common-sense principles when it comes to interpreting a holographic will. This is necessary to avoid conflicts, and increase the chances that the testator's wishes are honored.

But you should be aware that not all states authorize holographic wills. In these states, you are still authorized to hand write your will if you so desire, but they must be accompanied by all the formalities necessary by the law of that state.

Making a holographic will is rarely the ideal option. But it's occasionally the only option. If you find yourself suddenly needing to make a will, a holographic will is definitely an option, if they're recognized in your state. If possible, though, you should still talk with an attorney, who can review your holographic will and suggest any fixes that will make it simpler to meet your goals.

How Can A Dover, Delaware Lawyer Help?

Because of the various required formalities that accompany a will, it's not a bad idea to have a seasoned Dover, Delaware attorney help you draft your will, even if it is relatively simple.

Talk to a Wills, Trusts & Estates Law Attorney now!

Life in Dover

Dover, Delaware is the capital of Delaware, and its second-largest city. It has a population of about 36,000 people.

Dover, Delaware was founded in 1683 by British colonists. Dover is perhaps best known as being the home of Caesar Rodney, a popular lawyer and wartime leader during the American Revolution. The city was also an important stop on the Underground Railroad, even though the population of Dover was sharply divided on the issue of slavery. Many Dover, Delaware lawyers helped runaway slaves once they arrived.

Modernly, Dover's economy is fairly diverse. The largest employer in Dover, as well as in the entire state of Delaware, is the state government. The vast majority of the state's administrative functions are located in and around Dover. Another major employer is the Dover Air Force Base. This federal presence, along with the state government, employs many Dover, Delaware lawyers.

Residents of Dover, Delaware who need legal advice should have little trouble finding a good Dover, Delaware attorney.

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