Is a Will and an attorney necessary?

Possibly NOT necessary, but ALWAYS a good idea.

A will makes sure that the "probate" court KNOWS YOUR wishes in how your estate is handled.

I'd get a will.  It doesn't cost that much to get an estate attorney to do one and have it filed.

Are you *sure* there are no heirs?  I worked for an estate attorney and the term "came out of the woodwork" is true.  Even moreso when it's just a couple without siblings, parents, or kids.  Cousins, aunts, uncles... they ALL show up to take a piece of the pie you baked.  I found it extremely ugly, but was told this is the norm.

*Kat

It is still a good idea to have a short Will for a variety of reasons.  It might be nice to leave whatever assets you have to a children's and youth enrichment program or for books for children at your Public Library.  You can get on-line and find the necessary outline for making your own will without an attorney - you just need two (2) people who kown you sign the document attesting that it is your legal signature attached to the will.

If you can't find the outline, just email me and I'll get whatever you need - and if you decide to donate your assets after your deaths, I'll write the entire will for you for free - really, no strings.

Best wishes.

Sincerely,

Lawrence Elliott, MD (Board Certified Surgeon) & Court Appointed Licensed Divorce Mediator & Child Custody Mediation & Associate, Pre-Paid Legal Services, Inc. www.prepaidlegal/go/elliott57

ll_elliott@msn.com /// 518-772-0570

In most states, it is not necessary to have a lawyer prepare a will.