If a holographic will is the only document provided, an heir or interested party may challenge it.
A legal will must be written on paper, and cannot be done in an audio, video, or digital file in the State of Kentucky. Holographic wills are permitted but are a bad idea because the reliability of holographic wills is challenging. Kentucky estate planning lawyers can assist surviving loved ones and beneficiaries with the language of a legally binding last will document as part of a deceased loved one’s estate administration. If a holographic will is the only document provided, an heir or interested party may challenge it based on:
- Original intent. While a testator may know what is meant by certain abbreviations or details included in a written document, those reviewing the will may misinterpret or not understand the intended meaning. A holographic will can also be ambiguous in certain situations when describing beneficiaries with endearing terms and not names.
- Estate dispensation. Testators may forget to include details about what to do their total assets. Attorneys-drafted wills commonly include a residuary clause, which leaves any assets not included in the will to a specific person.
- Outdated document. While certain assets may be property owned by a testator when they write a will, they may not be the owners of certain property or assets at the time of their death. In such cases, beneficiaries may not inherit anything.
- Absence of named executor. Appointing someone to conduct a testator’s wishes is important, but some individuals fail to name a person to oversee this task.
- Specific considerations absent. It is wise to seek consultation with an attorney because they have a firm understanding of the state and federal laws that may impact estates, as well as how to advise specific clients on important document specifics that focus on executors, guardians, client-focused clauses, trusts for beneficiaries, etc.
A Last Will and Testament is important for the purposes of explaining where and how an individual would like their assets divided, debts resolved and end of life issues outlined because they are very personal matters. Louisville estate planning lawyers guide clients to make sure a will contains the legally necessary language so a person’s wishes can be honored at the time of their death according to Kentucky and federal laws.
Valid wills
Valid wills can be drawn up by individuals who are 18 years of age or older, are of sound mind, and without undue influence. A Will must be in writing, signed at the end by the testator and by two witnesses. If the testator cannot physically sign his name, he may direct another party to do so. This party may not be one of the witnesses. Each witness must sign the Will in the testator’s presence. Wills are used to identify guardians to care for minor children and property left to them; to name an executor who carries out the terms of a will and to leave property and certain assets to specific individuals and organization chosen by the testator.
Hire a lawyer
Consultation with a lawyer is important to understand the distinction between formally written wills and holographic wills. When possible, it is best to hire estate planning lawyers to draft essential documentation to minimize legal challenges to a deceased’s estate because Kentucky does recognize holographic wills. Consultation with tax lawyers is also a prudent decision so they can review estate planning documents and explain how tax burdens will be managed.
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