If you pass away without a will, you are said to have died intestate. Dying intestate means that a state court will decide who gets your assets. Additionally, if you have children under the age of 18, the courts will decide who takes care of them. Thus, if you would like to decide what happens with your assets and who will take care of your minor children after you pass away, it is vital to create a will, even if this document covers only the most basic topics.

Dying intestate is not fair to your family. Not only will you leave your family with no instructions, but your assets will also have to go through probate. Below are the three most pressing reasons why you should create a last will and testament immediately.

It Delays the Distribution of Assets

Dying intestate delays the distribution of your assets because your assets must go through probate court. Probate is a long and costly process that is something no family wants to deal with after the death of a loved one.

You Cannot Decide Who Gets what Assets

A last will and testament allows you to decide what family, friends, or charities get your assets after you pass away. If you die without a will, specific intestate laws will dictate how your assets will be split up. As the state is deciding how to distribute your assets, the court’s ruling may not line up with your wishes.

You Have no Say in Guardianship

If you are a parent to minor children and do not have a spouse or will, dying intestate means that you will not get to decide who cares for your child. While distributing your assets is important, the most important topic to decide on is who will care for your children.

Contact Our DC Law Office for More Information

Finally, for more on reasons why you do not want to die intestate, contact us at 202-803-5676. You can also directly schedule a consultation with one of our skilled attorneys. Additionally, for general information regarding estate planning, check out our blog.