A legal will in Louisville is vital to designate who inherits your assets after you die. Without a valid written will, your estate falls prey to Kentucky intestacy laws and your assets are distributed by the state. John H. Ruby & Associates have provided valuable legal advice to clients about wills for nearly 20 years in Jefferson County.
What is a legal will in Louisville?
A legal will in Kentucky is written by someone at least 18 years old and of sound mind. A holographic or handwritten will must be signed and dated by the author. A typed will must be signed and dated by two witnesses who are not designated beneficiaries nor married to designated beneficiaries.
An experienced attorney who understands Louisville will law can provide legal guidance in will preparation to ensure your loved ones receive the assets you intend. However, before consulting an attorney, you should gather important information needed to write a comprehensive will, including:
- All of your assets, including cash, stocks/bonds, real estate, business interests
- All of your liabilities, including mortgages, tax liabilities, debts
- Your estate goals
- Beneficiaries and alternate beneficiaries
- Trust property if trust terminates at your death
- Guardian(s) for minor children
- Who you want as executor
Although most people prefer to keep a will simple, you may be as specific as you like in your will. Assets such as life insurance policies and pension funds usually have named beneficiaries and do not require inclusion in your will. However, reviewing existing beneficiaries is a good idea because people often forget to update beneficiaries when situations change. Aside from assets, you may make other stipulations including:
- Specific burial or cremation requests
- Obligations of persons indebted to you to offset debts against their inheritance
- Assumption of property debt by inheritor of the property
- Forfeiture of inheritance if a beneficiary contests the will
Contest a will in Louisville
Occasions sometimes arise when you feel it necessary to contest a will. John H. Ruby & Associates can provide legal solutions to address contested wills. Our years of experience enable us to protect your rights in or out of court.
Consult an attorney about Louisville wills
Whether you want to revise an existing will, write a new will, or contest a will, John H. Ruby & Associates can help. Contact us today at 888-314-8437 for a consultation to discuss or your Louisville will needs.