At Owens & Perkins, we understand the importance of family and the benefits of clearly documented wishes. When you clearly state your wishes, it will make life much easier for your family when you are no longer here for them.

Every adult needs a Last Will and Testament. It does not matter if you are single or married, with or without children, nor does your net worth have anything to do with whether you need a Last Will and Testament.

One of the largest benefits of your Last Will and Testament is it allows you to name your beneficiaries and what they will inherit. It also allows you to name the Guardian and Conservator for your minor children, distribute items of personal property, state your final wishes with regard to burial or cremation and even make provisions for your pets.

Many parents are unaware that if both parents die without a Last Will and Testament naming Guardians and Conservators for their children, then a Judge will decide who will raise the children and how the money left for them will be spent. It is a common misunderstanding that if your children have godparents, that the children will live with the godparents. However, unless your children’s godparents are named as Guardians and Conservators in your Last Will and Testament, you cannot be sure who will raise your children.

Many people have questions about Holographic Wills. Holographic Wills are hand written Wills, and are very prone to Will-contest battles. If you know someone who has a Holographic Will, have that person speak with one of our experienced Estate Planning Attorneys.