Make a Will Month

August is National Make a Will Month, marking a great reminder for many to create or update this critical document.

Despite its importance, most adults still have not taken the steps to execute their own will. According to a recent survey, roughly 7 in 10 adults in the United States have not created a will.

For those located in Michigan, dying without a will in place (in other words, dying “intestate”) will leave several critical questions up to state law. Michigan’s intestacy laws determine who inherits your property, who has priority to handle your affairs after your death, and for parents of minor children, who has priority to take over as guardian for your children. These rules determining distributions and control will apply to anyone without a will, regardless of whether those defaults reflect your wishes or your family’s unique circumstances.

Creating a will is one of the first steps to forging a complete estate plan. It is not just a tool for the wealthy but instead ensures that your voice is heard and goals are realized after you can no longer speak for yourself. National Make a Will Month is the perfect time to ensure your estate plan reflects your current wishes and circumstances.

Whether you need your first will or want to update an existing plan, the attorneys at Wright Beamer can help! Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take control of your legacy.