Ogden Wills Lawyers
Serving Clients in Ogden & American Fork, UT
Many people avoid or neglect making a will. This can occur for many reasons, from simple procrastination to a lack of awareness about the benefits, discomfort with the idea of death, or believing that only the very wealthy need one.
This is unfortunate because a will is essential for everyone, regardless of age or financial status. A will clearly outlines your wishes regarding how you want your estate settled. It is a legal document submitted to the court that will oversee the probate process. It offers peace of mind that your assets will be distributed according to your desires. Wills can reduce stress and disputes among families and beneficiaries during estate settlement.
At Stevens & Gailey, PLLC, our estate planning lawyers can help you draft, implement, and modify your will to reflect your circumstances and wishes. We can provide knowledgeable guidance to produce a comprehensive and legally sound document. We start by getting to know you, your estate, and your circumstances, enlightening you on what can be included in your document to tailor it to your needs and goals.
Consult an Ogden wills attorney at Stevens & Gailey, PLLC by calling (801) 761-2124 or contacting us online. Hablamos español.
What Happens if You Die Without a Will in Utah?
If you pass away without a will, you are considered to have died "intestate," and state laws will dictate how your assets are distributed. This often leads to a distribution that might not reflect your wishes and can result in complex legal battles among potential heirs.
Additionally, without a designated guardian, the court will decide who will care for any minor children, which may not align with your family preferences.
What Can a Will Do in Ogden?
A will is a versatile legal document that includes many elements to ensure your wishes are fulfilled after your death.
These include:
- Appointment of an executor: You name an executor to manage your estate in probate. This person should be someone you trust to carry out your instructions.
- Guardianship designations: Appointing guardians for minor children or dependents, specifying who will care for them.
- Asset distribution: Detailed instructions on the amounts and how your assets will be distributed among beneficiaries; these assets can include real estate, personal property, and financial accounts.
- Specific bequests: Allocating specific items or amounts of money to particular individuals or organizations, such as charitable groups.
- Revocation of previous wills: A statement revoking any prior wills or codicils to prevent confusion.
Driven by integrity, compassion, & commitment Why Choose Stevens & Gailey, PLLC?
-
Trusted AdvisorsWhether facing complex legal challenges or high-value disputes, you need a firm you can trust. With extensive experience and a reputation for excellence, we are here to guide you through every step with confidence and expertise.
-
Unwavering CommitmentYour success is our priority. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to deliver the best possible outcomes, offering personalized attention and a strategic approach that’s always focused on your needs.
-
Tailored StrategiesHandling complex, high-stakes cases requires a deep understanding of financial intricacies. We specialize in managing high-net-worth cases, crafting personalized legal strategies designed to protect your assets and interests.
-
Bilingual Legal ExpertiseWe’re proud to offer legal services in both English and Spanish. Our bilingual team ensures that language is never a barrier to receiving top-tier legal representation, providing clear communication for all our clients.
Choosing an Executor for Your Will
An essential aspect of drafting a will is selecting an executor, someone you trust to fulfill your wishes. The executor is responsible for managing your estate, including paying debts, distributing assets, and ensuring taxes are filed. This should be someone responsible and trustworthy.
Your executor can be a spouse, family member, or friend. It can also be a professional, such as an attorney, accountant, or fiduciary; these are mainly used if your estate is complex or potential conflicts exist among beneficiaries. It’s also wise to name an alternate executor who can step in if the primary executor is unable or unwilling to serve.
How Stevens & Gailey, PLLC Can Help With Wills in Ogden
Our experienced team can create personalized wills that reflect your individual circumstances and wishes. We work diligently to draft comprehensive and legally sound documents.
Furthermore, our firm offers ongoing services to update and modify your will as needed to keep it aligned with any changes in your life or the law. We are here to provide compassionate, detailed attention to safeguard your legacy and provide peace of mind to you and your loved ones.
Call (801) 761-2124 or submit our online contact form to request a consultation with an Ogden wills attorney today.
