What is a last will and testament?
A last will and testament is a legal document created to ensure that your wishes are carried out after your death. It is important to create a will if you own any property or other assets, so the courts will know how to distribute your property and possessions. In Virginia, a last will and testament must generally be signed by two witnesses and a notary public, who must certify the will. Additionally, the testator, or the person filing the will, must acknowledge that the document is his or her last will and testament, and that it was created without any undue pressure or influence. Beyond a designation of beneficiaries, a last will and testament also allows for the appointment of an executor, who will be responsible for carrying out the wishes stated in the will. An executor can be a family member, a friend, or a professional like an attorney. A last will and testament can also designate guardians for minor children, allocate specific possessions to individuals, and provide instructions for funeral and burial arrangements. Overall, a last will and testament is an important legal document that ensures your wishes will be carried out after death. Without a will, it’s possible that the courts could determine how your estate is distributed, which is why it’s so important to create a last will and testament in Virginia.
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