Wills and Trusts Lawyers in Northern Virginia
Northern Virginia Attorneys
Wills Allow You to Make Your Wishes Known
Are you searching for an attorney to establish a will in northern Virginia? A last will and testament, also referred to as a will, is a legal document in which a person directs what is to be done with his or her property after death. The person who makes the will is called a testator. It must be written and signed in a particular way, as required by the laws of the state in which the testator resides. If someone dies without a will, additional complications may arise. Wills help ensure that the testator has peace of mind that their wishes will be followed and their loved ones (ex. a spouse) will be taken care of.
With decades of combined experience, the Attorneys at HALE BALL MURPHY, PLC Carlson Baumgartner Murphy, PLC understand what it takes to establish a comprehensive will. We can assist you in reflecting your individual needs into the document as well as help you identify the options you have in the matter. Our goal is to steer you towards legal peace of mind and create an effective and binding will that protects you, your family and valued assets. Whether you need to create an estate or trust, draft a will, or make sure an estate is completed and closed, we are here for you.
DYING WITH OR WITHOUT A WILL
There is no legal requirement in Virginia that states that you need a will. Instead of letting the government decide who should get your money, your estate will be distributed according to state law. Instead of letting the government choose your beneficiaries, it is important to create an effective will with an estate planning lawyer and to maintain control of your estate.
Benefits of creating a will include:
- Directing how you want your property divided after your death;
- Naming the person you want to handle your estate;
- Decreasing the expenses of administering your estate;
- Selecting a guardian for your minor children and determining their inheritance;
- Reducing or avoiding estate taxes;
- Providing a trust for the support and education of your minor children without court proceedings; and
- Protecting Medicaid benefits for children with special needs or elders in nursing homes.
Unless changes occur to the will or it is revoked before death, a will remains valid. Changes that affect a will include events such as the birth of a child born to the testator, divorce or marriage of the testator or changes in the tax law after the will is written and signed.
Anyone who is 18 years of age or older may make a will with a Virginia estate planning attorney. He or she also must be of sound mind and free of any improper or undue influence by another person when the will is made.
WHAT ABOUT TRUSTS?
An alternative to a will is a living trust. The living trust frequently is suggested as a means of avoiding probate. It also can be used for estate and probate tax minimization or avoidance and as a means of providing support for minor, disabled or immature children and grandchildren. We can provide you with the necessary knowledge and tools to create a legal document of your choice, including other types of trusts like constructive and resulting trusts, as well as even pet trusts.
Our wills and trusts attorneys can meet with you to discuss the specifics of your estate and if any litigation may be needed. They will consider the type and amount of your assets, and your goals, and advise you on the best document to meet your needs.
CONTACT OUR OFFICE TO BEGIN TODAY!
Now is the time to take control of your future and create a will or a living trust that best reflects your specific needs. Contact our firm to begin a confidential appointment with an experienced lawyer.
Since 1980 the AV-rated law firm of HALE BALL MURPHY, PLC has served the legal needs of individuals and businesses. Our team of attorneys include lawyers named to Super Lawyer and Rising Star lists, as well as attorneys with advanced legal degrees, specialty certifications and lawyers who teach their areas of practice to other lawyers.
Use the contact form on this page to schedule a consultation, or call 703-591-4900.
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