Most people realize that it is a good idea to have a will, but with the availability of online forms, you may not be certain whether to create your own will or whether you need an attorney. Because the validity or interpretation of a will may be challenged, many people find it helpful to consult an experienced wills lawyer when dealing with will-related issues.
Before creating, changing, or challenging a will, however, it is helpful to know the basics about Naperville wills. Understanding the factors that affect the validity and effectiveness of a will could help you decide how to proceed in a particular situation.
A will is sometimes referred to as a “last will and testament”. This is a written document that describes how an individual would like to have property distributed after death. A will may also name guardians for minor children and create trusts for their care. The person creating a will is commonly called the testator, and, in old-fashioned terms, if that person were a woman, she would be known as a testatrix.
As part of a will, the testator often names a trusted person to ensure the directions in the will are carried out. This person may be called an executor, administrator, or personal representative. In Naperville, the traditional term “executor” is most common.
Someone who receives a bequest of property through a will could be referred to as a beneficiary or legatee, but in legal terms, they would not be considered an heir. The term “heir” technically refers to someone who inherits property from someone who died without a will.
One of the most basic things to understand about wills is how to create a will that complies with state law. To be valid under 755 Ill. Comp. Stat. §5/4-3, a Naperville will must be:
Generally, witnesses are considered credible if they are old enough and have the capacity to understand what they are signing. It is best if the witnesses are “disinterested”, meaning that they do not stand to gain anything personally from the will. If a witness is someone designated to receive a bequest in the will, that bequest may be considered void.
A will does not need to be notarized to be valid in Naperville. However, it is wise to have the witnesses sign an attestation clause so that the will could be “self-proved”.
In an attestation clause, the witnesses state under penalty of perjury that they witnessed the proper legal execution of the will. Making a statement “under penalty of perjury” is like making a statement in court. Therefore, when a will contains an attestation clause, the witnesses do not need to be brought to court to attest to the validity of the will.
Wills may be contested on numerous grounds in Naperville. For instance, a relative may argue that a will is invalid because it was fraudulently executed or forged or because the testator lacked the capacity to understand the provisions.
To avoid potential validity issues or misinterpretations of terms, many people in Naperville find it reassuring to work with an experienced attorney who can not only explain the basics of wills but also craft a document that suits their unique needs. Call now for a consultation.
