Will Preparation in Evanston, Illinois

Find the right Will Preparation attorney in Evanston, IL

In Evanston, Illinois, many of the issues 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.

If your estate doesn't contain a lot of money and property, and you only want to leave your assets to a few individuals, making a will can be pretty simple.

Nonetheless, even if the will is comparatively simple, some problems which are very easy to avoid can still complicate the process. A reputable Evanston, Illinois wills and trusts lawyer can help you avoid these problems.

Many problems with wills can be caused by failing to follow the necessary formalities. These requirements are not very complex, but they need to be followed scrupulously. If not, the will might be found to be invalid. In almost every state, the will must be witnessed and signed by two disinterested parties, and must include a clear statement that the document is, in fact, a last will and testament.

Holographic Wills in Evanston, Illinois

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.

A holographic will, where they are allowed, will generally be interpreted liberally, to give effect to the testator's intent if at all possible.

But you should be aware that not all states allow holographic wills. In these states, you are still allowed 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 consult 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 Evanston, Illinois Lawyer Help?

Because there are certain formalities which must be followed in drafting wills, it's always a good idea to seek the advice of an Evanston, Illinois attorney in drafting your will. Even if your will is going to be very simple, and you have the formalities all figured out, mistakes can be made.

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

Life in Evanston

Evanston, Illinois is a municipality in Cook County, Illinois. It is a suburb of Chicago, and its population is estimated at about 75,000 people. Evanston is probably best known as the home of Northwestern University, which is one of the most prestigious undergraduate and graduate schools in the U.S., and home to one of highest-ranked law schools in the U.S. Evanston was officially incorporated in 1863, and grew rapidly during the industrial revolution. The popular building toys known as "Tinkertoys" were invented in Evanston, Illinois. Evanston is one of several cities which claim to be the birthplace of the ice cream sundae, though the veracity this claim, and the claims of other cities, can't be confirmed. Modernly, Northwestern University makes up a significant portion of Evanston's economic activity, from the thousands of people it employs, and the students it brings to the community, who typically spend a lot of money. If you live in the Chicago/Evanston area, and need legal representation, an Evanston, Illinois lawyer would probably be able to meet your legal needs. Evanston's proximity to such a prestigious law school, as well as the huge city right next door, ensures that Evanston, Illinois lawyers must be far more sophisticated than the average small-town attorney.

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