Prince William County Wills Lawyer

Serving Woodbridge, Manassas, Prince William County, Fairfax, Stafford, Spotsylvania, and Loudoun Counties in Virginia

Common Misconceptions about Wills

Taking the puzzle out of wills

A will is one of four primary corners of the estate planning jigsaw puzzle. Many people misunderstand the goal and use of this essential estate planning tool. Our goal at Quinto & Wilks, P.C. is to clarify this often perplexing tool.

Misconception 1: I can just download a will from a website, fill in the blanks, and be done with it.

While there are certainly websites that offer do-it-yourself versions of wills, there is more to crafting a legally valid will than meets the eye. An experienced wills lawyer knows exactly which questions to ask you and how to reflect your answers so your will can stand up in Virginia's courts. The last thing you want is to have your heirs bickering over your intentions.

Misconception 2: All I have to do is decide who gets my money and my property.

As an estate planning tool, a will can be used to not only direct the distribution of your estate's assets, including money and property, but also to articulate the care of your children and the person you designate to administer your estate. Additionally, you can use a will to establish any number of trusts. These are complicated decisions and ones that are best made with the guidance of an experienced wills lawyer in Prince William County.

Misconception 3: I don't need a will. My estate will just pass to my spouse.

There is no reason to leave the distribution of your estate to chance. If you die without a will, the Virginia statutes dictate the distribution of your property and assets, usually to your spouse and/or children. But perhaps you intend to give more to one child than another. Or maybe you would like to leave some assets to your siblings, nieces or nephews, or even grandchildren. A well-crafted will ensures your intentions are followed upon your death.

Misconception 4: My estate is not large enough to warrant a will.

Many people believe they do not have sufficient wealth to warrant a will. However, a will can help you effectively plan for your future regardless of the value of your estate. Your will legally articulates the care of your children, distribution of any assets, the timing of that distribution, and who is in charge of the administrative process. For instance, you may want your children's share of your estate to be managed for them instead of paid in one lump sum. Let Quinto & Wilks, P.C. show you how a will can work best for you and your family.

Click on the links below to find the answers to other common questions regarding wills and probate:

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