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Writing your will is one of the most important acts that you can take during your lifetime. Your will is a legal document that specifies your wishes regarding your property as well as the future of your children should you pass away. Your will enables you to designate a legal guardian to care for your children- a crucial decision that should be made as soon as your children are born.

You should also consider naming an executor of your estate in your will as well. The executor will be the person responsible for distributing your property or assets to your chosen recipients (beneficiaries) after you die. The executor plays an important role in handling your estate according to your instructions.

People who have died without writing a will undoubtedly had no clear understanding of the trouble that ensued for their beneficiaries. Since your possessions, property, and care of your children will be decided regardless, writing a will saves everyone time and money. If you die without writing a will, the courts will chose and executor or administrator to handle the disbursement of your property according to the laws that govern your particular state. You can see how there is no room for sentiment including in the distribution process when a court appointed administrator handles this. If you wish to have your possessions distributed in a particular way, determined by you, then writing your will is crucial.

To make your will legal, you will need to sign it in the presence of two witnesses. There are certain conditions that determine if your will is valid. The witnesses must both be at least eighteen years of age, and should have no conflicting interests amongst them. First, you must be at least eighteen years of age to write a valid will. You also must be in your sound mind and be mentally competent. To ensure that you will is legal and deemed valid, it is best to have it drafted and signed by your attorney.