A will is one of the most important documents you will ever sign. It tells your family and the courts how you want your property distributed, who should care for your children, and how your final wishes should be carried out. Despite its importance, many people put off creating a will or try to do it themselves using online templates. Hiring a will drafting lawyer in Pittsburgh, PA gives you confidence that your will is done right and will hold up when it matters most.
What a Will Does
A will is a legal document that specifies what happens to your assets after you die. It allows you to:
- Name beneficiaries who will inherit your property, money, and belongings
- Appoint an executor to manage your estate and carry out your instructions
- Name a guardian for minor children
- Make specific gifts of items like jewelry, vehicles, or family heirlooms
- Provide instructions for paying debts and taxes
Without a will, Pennsylvania law decides who gets your property. That may not match what you would have wanted, and it can create conflict among your surviving family members.
The Problem with DIY Wills
Online will templates are inexpensive and easy to find. But they come with risks. A template does not know your personal situation, your family dynamics, or the specific rules in Pennsylvania. Mistakes in wording, missing signatures, or failure to follow state requirements can make a will invalid or lead to disputes that end up in court.
Common problems with DIY wills include:
- Improper execution: Pennsylvania requires wills to be signed by the testator and witnessed by two people. If these steps are not done correctly, the will may be challenged.
- Unclear language: Vague or confusing terms can lead to arguments about what you meant, which delays the distribution of your estate.
- Missing provisions: Templates often leave out important clauses, like what happens if a beneficiary dies before you or how to handle debts.
- Conflicts with other documents: A will must work together with beneficiary designations on accounts like life insurance and retirement plans. Without legal guidance, conflicts can arise that cause assets to go to the wrong people.
A will drafting lawyer in Pittsburgh, PA knows how to avoid these issues and can make sure your will does exactly what you intend.
What to Expect When Working with a Lawyer
When you hire a will drafting lawyer, the process usually goes like this:
- Initial consultation: You meet with the lawyer to discuss your family, your assets, and your goals. This is a conversation, not a legal exam.
- Drafting the will: The lawyer prepares a draft based on your discussion and sends it to you for review.
- Revisions: You have the chance to ask questions and request changes before the document is finalized.
- Signing: The lawyer arranges a signing meeting where you sign the will in front of witnesses. Some lawyers also prepare a self-proving affidavit, which makes probate easier later.
The whole process often takes just a few weeks, and the peace of mind it provides lasts a lifetime.
When to Update Your Will
A will is not a one-and-done document. Life changes, and your will should change with it. Here are some events that should prompt a review of your will:
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth or adoption of a child
- Death of a beneficiary or executor named in the will
- Buying or selling a home or other major asset
- Moving to a new state
- Significant changes in your financial situation
Your will drafting lawyer in Pittsburgh, PA can help you make updates quickly and ensure the new version replaces the old one properly.
Why Local Matters
Every state has its own laws about wills and estates. A will drafting lawyer in Pittsburgh, PA knows Pennsylvania requirements and can guide you through local probate procedures. They can also advise you on Pennsylvania inheritance tax, which applies to most estates and varies depending on the relationship between you and your beneficiaries.
Working with a local lawyer also makes it easier to meet in person, sign documents, and get questions answered without waiting for someone in another time zone to respond.
Get Started Now
Creating a will is one of the kindest things you can do for your family. It removes uncertainty, prevents disputes, and makes sure your wishes are respected. If you do not have a will yet, or if your current will is out of date, now is the time to act.
Contact a will drafting lawyer in Pittsburgh, PA to schedule a consultation. It takes less time than you might think, and it gives you the peace of mind that comes from knowing your affairs are in order.