Madison Will Attorney

For more than two decades, Krause Estate Planning & Elder Law Center has been using our extensive resources and knowledge of the law to help clients in Madison draft customized wills for their estate plans. A will is an important estate planning tool and legal document that specifies who all of your property and assets will be distributed to when you pass away. A major benefit of having a will in your estate plan is that is it can help avoid confusion and other undesirable consequences that might occur when a person dies without proper planning.

When you turn to our law firm for guidance, we make it our priority to work closely with you to devise a will that is carefully tailored to your unique situations. Our legal team will discuss all of the relevant issues that will impact your estate after your death so that that you can make informed decisions on what to specify in your will documents.

For your free consultation, contact us online or at (608) 344-5491 to get started with our wills attorney in Madison.

What are the Consequences of Dying Without a Will in Madison?

If you pass away in the state of Wisconsin without a will, then all of the property that is in your name will be distributed according to state "intestacy" laws. Under Wisconsin's intestacy laws, your closest relatives will receive your property, beginning with your spouse and children. If you don’t have a spouse or children, then your grandchildren or your parents will get your property. This continues with increasingly distant relatives, such as siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. If the court doesn't find any living relatives to distribute your property to, then the state will take your property.

Why Madison Residents Should Draft a Will

It is never too early to prepare a will for your estate plan. Your will can be modified or replaced, so if you are hesitant about making these important decisions, you can always go back and make revisions. A will can be used to:

• Leave your property to specific people or organizations
• Name a personal guardian to care for your minor children
• Name someone you trust to manage the property you leave to minor children
• Name a personal representative to ensure that the terms of your will fulfilled

Trusts vs. Wills

While a trust does offer a number of protections and advantages, you may still benefit from having a will on top of your trust. A will can be useful for naming a guardian for your minor children and can provide for the transfer of property that isn't placed in a trust. For instance, you may have acquired property shortly before you pass away and may not have had the chance to place these in a trust.

You can think of having a will as an added layer of protection and safety net for property or assets that aren't placed in a trust.

Do You Need an Attorney?

You are not required by law to have an attorney for a valid will, but it is highly recommended to help ensure that your will is thorough and legally binding. A lawyer is familiar with the various laws affecting how assets are transferred, how to prepare documents, and can guide you through the many issues that should be addressed in your will.

When Should I Update My Will?

Any time you go through a major life change such as a divorce, remarriage, birth of children, change in financial circumstance, or another big life event, you should revisit your will to reflect these updates. This may involve creating a codicil for your existing will or making a new will entirely, depending on your situation. Your attorney can help you make these updates to ensure that your changes are legally valid.

Local Resources for Will Amendments in Madison

Living in Madison, you have access to various local resources and government entities that can assist with your estate planning needs, including will amendments. The Dane County Clerk's Office and the City of Madison provide valuable information and services to help you navigate the legal requirements for updating your will. The Wisconsin Court System also offers resources and guidelines to ensure your will complies with state laws.

One common pain point for Madison residents is the frequent life changes that require amendments. Whether it's a new job at one of the city's thriving tech companies, a growing family, or a change in marital status, these events often require updates to your estate plan. Our Krause Estate, Planning & Elder Law Center team understands the unique challenges Madison locals face and is here to help you make the necessary adjustments to your will.

We know the Madison area well, from the bustling Capitol Square to the serene shores of Lake Mendota. This local knowledge allows us to provide personalized advice that considers our community's specific needs and circumstances. Whether you're a long-time resident or new to the area, our attorneys are committed to helping you protect your assets and ensure your wishes are honored. 

Contact Our Madison Wills Lawyer Today

In addition to will drafting services, we also offer other estate planning options that you can use to help minimize the burdens on your family and loved ones after you are gone. Our legal professionals at Krause Estate Planning & Elder Law Center are here to make sure that your will supports the rest of your estate plan.

Contact us today at (608) 344-5491 to schedule a consultation with our Madison wills attorneys.