Wills represent a set of instructions that explain how a person wants their property to be distributed after their death. The will must be in writing and must be signed by the estate owner and at least two witnesses. The witnesses must also have seen each other witness the will. It is important to make sure these requirements are carefully observed.

Wills help you ensure that your wealth is left to the individuals or groups that you wish. Estate planning can be extremely complex, even for relatively modest estates, and includes aspects of the laws of successions, real estate, community property and federal tax law. Inadequate estate planning can result in a large and unnecessary federal estate tax, as well as a number of other problems.

Prior to drafting a will or establishing a succession, it is advisable to consult with an attorney to ensure your assets and family’s interests are protected.

Our lawyers at Helene Mathieu Legal Consultants advise on several aspects of estate planning and asset allocation. Whether with a trust,a foundation or a simple will, we want to ensure that all of your assets are being properly transferred, whether it is a house, a bank account, or the family-owned business.

Most successions are relatively simple court procedures that usually do not entail major costs unless arguments amongst the heirs and beneficiaries ensue. We strive to handle such litigation matters with a philosophy of encouraging settlement rather than drawn out and costly court hearings and trial.