Many of the complications that sometimes come up with wills in Corbin, Kentucky, such as contests brought by would-be beneficiaries, or devises which aren't clear on what they mean, can be avoided if the will is properly drafted in the first place.

Drafting a will doesn't need to be a difficult or especially expensive process. If you have a small to moderate amount of assets (limited to a home, a car, and a few bank/investment accounts), and don't need to set up trusts or anything similar, you can probably have a will written in just a couple days, for a relatively small fee.

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

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 Corbin, Kentucky

In some states, "holographic wills" are legitimate. A holographic will is written by hand, in the testator's own handwriting. Such will do not need to have any witnesses to be valid.

If holographic wills are valid in your state, courts will, as with any will, have to figure out what is really being said, and resolve ambiguities. Because holographic wills are not always written under ideal conditions, they have to be interpreted very liberally, so they can be given effect and not fail for technical reasons.

You should, however, know that not all states authorize holographic wills. In such states, you can still hand write your will if you want, but all the formalities, such as witnesses, must be present.

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 Corbin, Kentucky Lawyer Help?

Because of the formalities that must accompany most wills, it might be wise to have a Corbin, Kentucky attorney help you draft it.