In Chambersburg, Pennsylvania there are several problems that can rear their heads, derailing the process of drafting or executing a will. Common examples include ambiguities in the language of the will, leading to conflicts and challenges. Most of these issues can be staved off through quality drafting.

If your estate does not have a huge amount of assets, your assets are limited to cash and personal belongings, and you wish to leave all your property to your immediate family and friends, the process of drafting your will is likely to be fairly simple.

But even if the will is relatively simple, some preventable problems can derail the process. An experienced lawyer in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania who specializes in wills and estate planning can help make sure that this doesn't happen to your will.

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 Chambersburg, Pennsylvania

In some states, "holographic wills" are valid. 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.

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

You should, however, know that not all states allow 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 sometimes the only option. If you find yourself suddenly needing to make a will, a holographic will is certainly 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 easier to meet your goals.

How Can A Chambersburg, Pennsylvania Lawyer Help?

Because of the formalities that are required for most wills to be valid, it is usually a good idea to have a Chambersburg, Pennsylvania attorney help you make it, or at least go over it after you have written it, to make sure there aren't any problems with it.