Want To Change Your Will In Massachusetts? Avoid These Three Common Mistakes
Every adult in Massachusetts can benefit from a comprehensive, well-drafted will. You are never too young to write a will. It can be easily revised to account for life’s ever-changing circumstances. That being said, there are some all-too-common errors that people make when revising a will in the Commonwealth. Here, our Norwood estate planning lawyers explain three of the most common mistakes that you should avoid when changing your will in Massachusetts.
Mistake #1: Revising Your Will On Your Own (Consult With a Lawyer)
Many people assume that making changes to their will is as simple as striking out a name or adding a few lines. The reality is far more complicated. A will is a highly technical document. Even a seemingly minor error could cause you serious problems. You should always consult with a Massachusetts estate planning attorney to make changes to your will. The Commonwealth has specific laws regarding the modification of wills—and failing to adhere to these laws can lead to your will being deemed invalid. Your lawyer will ensure that your revised will not only conforms to all requirements, but that it also most effectively protects your interests and achieves your goals.
Mistake #2: Not Communicating People Who are Impacted By the Changes
Communication is an underrated part of estate planning. Whenever you make a change to your will, it is vital to communicate these changes with all of the parties involved. Among others, this could include beneficiaries, executors, trustees, and close family members. A lack of communication can lead to confusion, hurt feelings, and even legal disputes after your passing. Clear communication helps set expectations and can prevent misunderstandings. By discussing your intentions openly with affected parties, you foster transparency and can address any concerns upfront.
Mistake #3: Keeping Your Old Will Without Clear Indication of the Changes
Here is one of the biggest risks that you want to avoid when revising your will: Leaving your loved ones with confusion over which version of the document is valid. Too many people in Massachusetts
simply place their revised will alongside the older version. This can lead to significant confusion after your passing. If there are multiple versions of your will, executors might not know which one is the latest, leading to potential legal battles or misinterpretation of your final wishes. When you revise your will, ensure you clearly indicate the date of the revision and the fact that it supersedes all previous versions. Indeed, it is a best practice to simply destroy all of the prior (outdated) versions of your will.
Contact Our Boston, MA Estate Planning Attorneys for Immediate Help
At Fisher Law LLC, our Massachusetts estate planning lawyers work tirelessly to help clients protect their and achieve their goals. If you are preparing to revise your will, we are here to help. Contact us today to set up your fully confidential, no obligation case review. Our firm provides estate planning services in Boston, Suffolk County, Norfolk County, and throughout the Greater Boston area.
