Wills & Family Law
WILLS AND ESTATE PLANNING
Planning for the future isn't always something we like to think about, but we should. If you die intestate (without a will), your state's laws will determine the distribution of your assets at the time of your death. Laws vary from state to state, but generally the state's plan distributes one's estate between their spouse, if any, and other family members. That plan may or may not reflect your actual wishes.
A will, among other functions, provides for the distribution of your assets and property, and the custody and care of any minor children, according to the manner you choose. While some assets, such as jointly held property, insurance and other employment related death benefits, may pass outside your will to certain designated beneficiaries, a will allows for control and proper planning in this, the last act of your life.
Some of the primary benefits of having a will are:
- To Protect the Surviving Spouse - and any minor or dependant children.
- To appoint Guardians for you minor children.
- To appoint a Trustee to manage and administer the fund left to your minor children and other survivors.
- To insure the distribution of your property in a manner consistent with your wishes.
- To appoint Executors ( Administrators) who oversee paying taxes, settling debts and distributing estates.
- It may help you ( and your survivors) avoid paying excess Federal or State Estate related taxes.
The Law Office of George S. Johnson, LLC
The Manning Leipold Building
910 Church Street, Suite 202
Decatur, GA 30030
PH: 404.378.5878 FAX: 404.377.5750