I Created A Will With A Form I Found On The Internet.  Do I Need To Worry About Its Validity? 

There are many estate planning resources found online that can be helpful in planning for the future.  However, filling out a form online does not take into account all of the complexities of estate planning and may not be sufficient to meet your needs.

In order for a will to be valid in Arizona, the person making the will (or testator) must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind.  The will must be (1) in writing, (2) signed by the testator (or signed in his or her presence under his or her direction), and (3) signed by two witnesses.  Arizona also recognizes holographic wills that are in the handwriting of the testator and signed by the testator.  Meeting these requirements may mean that your will is valid but it does not mean that your will meets all of your needs.

Even if your will is valid in Arizona, filling out a form on the internet may not be the best way to establish your estate plan.  There are many complexities when it comes to estate planning that a generic form might not take into account such as complex family situations, taxes, and the transferring of significant property or assets.

The more complex your family situation and assets are the more likely it is that you should seek the help of an estate Planning Attorney. If you are married with children or have significant assets, then you should seek the help of an estate planning attorney.

It is easy to make mistakes when filling out your own forms and oftentimes important issues are overlooked.  An estate planning attorney can help guide you through the process and make sure that your needs are met.  Don’t let a desire to cut costs prevent you from getting help from an estate planning attorney to establish a plan that is valid and in accordance with your needs and wishes.

Mesa Location:
1930 N. Arboleda, Suite 201
Mesa, Arizona 85213
Office: 480-655-7440
Fax: 480-655-7099
Email: [email protected]
Website: GundersonDenton.com

Phoenix Office:
40 N. Central Avenue, Suite 1400-1532
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Phone: 480-325-9937
Website: http://gundersondenton.com/phoenix