Even when we depart this earth, we may leave trouble behind for those we love. The best way to avoid the uncertainty and expense of going to probate court is to make certain your final wishes are known and directed to be carried out through a will.

If a person dies without a will, known in the law as “intestate”, that person's property will be divided according to the general priorities set by the legislature. Those priorities may not be the same as yours. For instance, in Virginia, if you die intestate and leave behind children with someone other than your present spouse, your children will receive two-thirds of your estate and your spouse one-third.

Specific bequests may never take place unless you write them out in a will. The fishing pole you wanted to give to your youngest son and the family ring you wanted your daughter to have may end up with someone else. You may not even be laid to rest in the place or manner you wish.

Given the great advances of modern medicine, you may also want to consider protecting yourself and your loved ones from medical treatments you consider 'extreme'. A “Living Will” appoints one or two loved ones to inform your physicians that you do not wish to remain on life support if there is virtually no chance of meaningful recovery. In the absence of such a document, most hospitals and physicians are reluctant to allow a patient to die a natural death. You may also leave written 'Do Not Resuscitate' orders, directing physicians not to use extraordinary means to prolong life after a terminal illness results in cardiac or respiratory arrest.

If you are one of the lucky people who has significant wealth, your need for a will and other financial planning is imperative. Without such planning, the assets you worked so hard to gain may end fattening the coffers of the U.S. Treasury rather than going to your family or to worthy charities. It is never too soon to plan the disposition of your estate .

Our attorney fees for wills and other estate planning are highly competitive. Our friendly, can-do approach to client relations is unmatched in the region.