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Will & Trust law
 
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I want to re write my will. I am single, have no children, but do want to change it and was thinking I should also draw up a medical power of attorney. Can I do this on my own without having to pay a lawyer? What do I have to do to make it legal?

By Anonymous Asked Jul 16 2009 8:58AM
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Answer 1 out of 4

by Anonymous on Jul 31, 2009 at 10:38 am Permalink

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This answer was last edited on: Oct 25, 2009
look at the family legal plan. It may answer your questions and solve your concerns.
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Answer 2 out of 4

by -Icy-party patrol on Jul 16, 2009 at 3:32 pm Permalink

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have it notarized with 2 witnesses. i have done this and was legal.
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Answer 3 out of 4

by Im Alec on Jul 16, 2009 at 3:28 pm Permalink

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Sorry, I cannot speak for US law; you need someone who is US based for that.
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Answer 4 out of 4

by Im Alec on Jul 16, 2009 at 9:06 am Permalink

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Yes, you can draw up a will on your own. All it needs is for it to be clear what it says, and for your signature and date to be witnessed by two people who should not, if at all possible, be legatees. All a lawyer will do is ensure that it is clear, and advise you on things you may not have thought of, including how to minimise taxes. Stationers shops sell DIY will kits, or you may be able to download one from the Web, and there certainly on-line will preparers.

For the medical side, if you are in the UK, what you want is an Lasting Power of Attorney - see http://www.publicguardian.gov.uk/arrangements/lpa.htm . If you google that phrase, you will get offers to draw one up for you at not a very high price - but there is no reason why you should not DIY.
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Avatar Anonymous Jul, 16 2009 at 01:08 PM
I live in USA, so what document would you suggest for the medical side of it, incase I were to become ill and unable to handle my affairs?
Avatar ChrisDC Jul, 16 2009 at 03:34 PM
Im Alec, I need to correct something that you said that is generally not the case in the U.S.
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In most, but not all U.S. jurisdictions, a properly signed will can be valid even if it is not witnessed -- but generally only if the entire will is handwritten.
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The differing rules in the U.S., and especially given that probate can get complicated if property is held in multiple states, means that hiring a lawyer to draft the will and ensure it is properly witnessed and filed is crucial.
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There are circumstances where courts fall back on handwritten wills, but the number of ways that you can run afoul of idiosyncratic requirements for verifying the will are just too many to take chances with.


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I want to re write my will. I am single, have no children, but do want to change it and was thinking I should also draw up a medical power of attorney. Can I do this on my own without having to pay a lawyer? What do I have to do to make it legal?

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