With the sheer volume of unique language used to address, define, and applies to wills in Lombard, it is perfectly natural to feel overwhelmed by them. However, when it comes to understanding these important terms for Lombard wills, there is no better a choice than to work with a lawyer who could simplify the process of drafting and managing a will for you.
Understandably, many people who are either looking to draft or execute a will are unfamiliar with many of the terms and language used for Lombard wills. Many of these terms are used to address what could be done to the will and what defines a will itself. People who are looking to familiarize themselves with these terms should consider talking to a lawyer who has experience in these matters.
As defined by law, a codicil is an amendment to an existing will. It has similar requirements in that it has to be in writing, signed by the testator, and witnessed by two persons.
As defined by law, a holographic will is a handwritten will that is not witnessed by anybody.
An attestation clause is a clause at the end of the will that indicates that the witnesses saw the testator sign the will, they signed the will in the presence of the testator and the presence of each other, and they attest to their belief that based on their observations of the testator they of sound mind and memory.
As defined by law, an abatement is when a specific gift in a will no longer exists. A classic example of this would be if a will gives a 2015 Toyota Camry to a specific person, but when the testator dies, there is no 2015 Toyota Camry. That gift is said to have abated.
As defined by law, intestacy is the Illinois legislature’s best guess at determining how the property should be divided for someone without a will. It is a series of laws in Illinois that determine how property passes from somebody to their relatives in the event that they do not have a will.
While there are a number of critical terms for Lombard wills to describe the writing and drafting process, there are just as many to address important people and their roles for wills. These people are almost always included within the wording of wills and should be understood by people looking to plan for the future.
As defined by law, a testator is a person who is over age 18 and is the one making the will. It is considered their last will and testament and it is their signature at the end of the will.
An heir is a blood relative of a testator. A person could be an heir of an estate based on their family relationship with the testator or the decedent. It is a blood or adopted relationship and not one by marriage.
A beneficiary is a named person or entity to receive a gift in a will. An heir could also be a beneficiary, but not all beneficiaries are always heirs. It could include people, charities, or other organizations.
As defined by law, an executor is a person named in a will to carry out its terms and to be in charge of administering the estate.
As defined by law, a decedent is a person who died. Usually in the context of probate and estates, it is the person whose will is at issue.
As defined by law, a grantor is the person who creates a trust, because they are granting property to the trustee for the benefit of the beneficiary. Sometimes “grantor” or “testator” are used interchangeably, but it is more appropriate to use the term “grantor” when referring to the creator of a trust as opposed to a will.
With the numerous terms for Lombard wills, it may be a good idea to consider working with an attorney who could help streamline the drafting, editing, and management process of a will and estate. Contact an attorney today to do just that.
