Simi Valley Wills Attorney

Succession Planning That Supports Your Loved Ones

At Dallara Law, we know that considering your loved ones’ futures can be an emotional process. Knowing how they will take care of themselves after your death is an important consideration as you draft your succession plan. If you are changing your life due to a divorce as well, you’ll also want to revise parts of your estate documents.

Before life-changing events like travel, marriage, children, retirement, or passing, it’s important to thoroughly plan your estate. Jeff Dallara has the experience to guide you through these difficult decisions that include drafting wills to protect your future while caring for current needs.

Ready to draft or revise your will? Contact Dallara Law online or by calling (805) 456-1066 today.

Why Having a Will Matters

A will is a legally binding document that outlines your instructions for the distribution of your assets after your death. Without a will, your estate will be distributed according to California's intestate succession laws, which may not align with your wishes. This can result in unintended consequences, such as assets going to distant relatives or being divided in ways you may not have intended.

A will also allows you to:

• Appoint guardians for minor children: If you have children under 18, a will lets you name someone to take care of them if you and the other parent are no longer able to do so. Without a will, the court will make this decision, which may not reflect your preferences.
• Decide how your property is distributed: You can specify who will receive particular assets, such as your home, vehicles, savings, or family heirlooms. You may also choose to leave gifts to friends, charities, or other organizations that are important to you.
• Name an executor: The executor is responsible for carrying out your wishes and managing your estate after you pass. This role involves overseeing the probate process, paying any debts, and ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your will. Choosing a trustworthy executor is crucial to ensure your estate is handled efficiently and fairly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Drafting a Will

Many people make mistakes when creating a will, especially when they attempt to do it without the guidance of an experienced attorney. Working with a Simi Valley wills lawyer can help you avoid the following common errors:

• Failing to update your will: Life changes such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the acquisition of significant assets should prompt you to update your will. Failure to do so can lead to outdated provisions and confusion.
• Not considering all your assets: Some individuals forget to include important assets in their wills, such as digital property (e.g., social media accounts, cryptocurrencies) or life insurance policies. A lawyer can help you create a comprehensive will that accounts for all aspects of your estate.
• Overlooking tax implications: Estate taxes and other financial considerations can have a significant impact on how much your beneficiaries receive. A wills attorney can help you explore options to minimize tax burdens on your heirs.

How a Simi Valley Wills Lawyer Can Help

Drafting a will involves more than simply writing down who gets what. It requires careful consideration of your assets, your family’s needs, and any legal requirements that must be met for the will to be valid. By working with a Simi Valley wills lawyer, you can ensure that your will is legally sound and customized to reflect your unique circumstances.

A wills lawyer can assist with:

• Drafting and reviewing your will: Your lawyer will help you organize your thoughts, determine how your assets should be divided, and draft a document that complies with California state laws. They can also review any existing wills to ensure they remain valid and up-to-date.
• Advising on trusts: In some cases, creating a trust in conjunction with a will may be the best way to protect your assets and provide for your family. A lawyer can explain the benefits of trusts and help you establish one if appropriate.
• Ensuring your wishes are carried out: Your lawyer can guide you in choosing an executor and making provisions for your estate’s management, helping to avoid potential disputes among family members or beneficiaries.

Protect Your Future Today

Whether you’re just beginning to think about creating a will or need to update an existing one, a Simi Valley wills lawyer can provide the expert guidance and personalized attention you need. By creating a comprehensive estate plan, you can ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and that your loved ones are cared for in the way you intend.

Contact a Simi Valley wills lawyer by calling (805) 456-1066 today to schedule a consultation and take the first step in securing your family’s future.