Many of the complications that sometimes come up with wills in Mount Rainier, Maryland, 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.

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.

But be warned: even a relatively simple will can encounter problems in the drafting process, which can cause problems later on. An accomplished Mount Rainier, Maryland lawyer will greatly reduce the chances of this happening, if they help you in the process of robust will preparation.

Most of the complications that plague wills stem from failure on the part of the drafter to comply with the required formalities. These requirements aren't terribly perplexing, but they have to be followed to the letter if a will is to be valid. Normally, wills have to be witnessed and signed by at least 2 people, and it must include a clear statement that the document is, in fact, a will. You should choose the witnesses carefully, because if they have any direct interest in the will, they won't count as valid witnesses.

Holographic Wills in Mount Rainier, Maryland

In some states, testators are authorized to make "holographic wills." This is a will which the testator hand-writes, in his or her own handwriting. Such wills do not need to have any witnesses to be given effect.

Holographic wills, assuming they're recognized, are interpreted very broadly. This gives them the best possible chance of really being implemented, since they will rarely be invalidated on technicalities.

You should know, however, that holographic wills aren't recognized in many states. If you live in one of these states, you're still free to hand write your will, but, in order to be valid, it must be accompanied by all the formalities required by the laws of the state it is made in.

If your estate is relatively small, and the devises you wish to make aren't very perplexing, a holographic will can be a good option if they're valid in your state. Of course, it's never a bad idea to make a will with the assistance of a lawyer.

How Can A Mount Rainier, Maryland Lawyer Help?

Because there are particular formalities which must be followed in drafting wills, it's always a good idea to seek the help of a Mount Rainier, Maryland 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.