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The Benefit of Having a Will

 

By Jay Taylor, Attorney at Law

 

A will is not just a formality—it is your opportunity to decide who receives your property and who manages your affairs after death. Without one, Michigan’s intestacy laws decide for you, often in ways that do not reflect your wishes.

A properly drafted will allows you to:

 

• Appoint a personal representative to handle your estate;
• Designate who inherits specific property;
• Provide for your spouse, children, or charitable causes;
• Name a guardian for minor children; and
• Clarify your final wishes to prevent family conflict.

 

A will also allows for contingency planning—if one beneficiary predeceases you, others can take their place. By establishing clear instructions, you make administration easier, faster, and less expensive for your loved ones.

Even if you have a trust, a “pour-over will” is still needed to transfer any overlooked assets into the trust. Every adult should have at least a basic will. It’s a fundamental step in responsible estate planning that protects both your assets and your family.