Lexington, SC Last Will And Testament Lawyers Helping You Protect What Matters Most
Wills That Put Your Wishes First And Simplify The Future For Your Family
Planning for the future isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most important gifts you can give your loved ones. Without a valid will in place, South Carolina law decides who inherits your property, who cares for your children, and how your affairs are handled. At Johnson + Johnson Attorneys at Law, our Lexington last will and testament lawyers help families create clear, legally sound wills that reflect their wishes and protect their families.
Whether you need a simple will to cover the basics or a more comprehensive plan that includes trusts, powers of attorney, and other tools, we make the process straightforward and stress-free.
Why Having A Will Matters
A will isn’t just for people with large estates. Anyone who owns property, has children, or wants a say in how their affairs are handled should have one.
- Names Guardians For Minor Children: Without a will, the court decides who will care for your children.
- Specifies How Assets Are Distributed: A will ensures your property goes to the people you choose.
- Simplifies Administration: A well-drafted will makes the process faster and easier for your family.
- Works With Your Trust: When paired with a trust, a will (often called a “pour-over will”) ensures all assets are covered.
Creating a will today can prevent confusion, conflict, and unnecessary expenses tomorrow.
What A Last Will And Testament Can Do
Your will is more than just a document, it’s a plan for your loved ones. Our attorneys tailor every will to your unique needs, which may include:
- Appointing guardians for your minor children.
- Naming an executor to manage your estate.
- Outlining specific gifts to family members, friends, or charities.
- Coordinating with your trust for a seamless plan.
- Providing instructions for debts, taxes, and final expenses.
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all planning. Every will we create is built to reflect your priorities and protect your family.
Wills And Trust-Based Planning
While a will is a critical component of your plan, it often works best alongside a trust. Our trust-based planning approach keeps your assets out of probate, ensures privacy, and provides a smoother transition for your family. Even if your primary plan relies on a trust, a pour-over will acts as a safety net to capture any assets that weren’t retitled before your passing.
What To Expect When You Work With Us
Creating a will doesn’t have to be complicated. Our process is simple, thorough, and designed to give you confidence in your plan:
- Personal Planning Session: We learn about your family, your assets, and your wishes.
- Custom Drafting: Every will is written for your specific needs — no generic templates.
- Clear Guidance: We explain every step in plain language so you understand your plan.
- Seamless Updates: We make it easy to adjust your will as your life changes.
FAQs About Wills In South Carolina
- What is a last will and testament, and why do I need one?
- What happens if I die without a will in South Carolina?
- Does a will have to be notarized in South Carolina?
- What is a pour-over will, and how does it work?
- How do I name a guardian for my children in my will?
- Can I update my will after it’s signed?
- What’s the difference between a will and a trust?
- How much does it cost to have a will drafted in South Carolina?
- Who should be my executor?
- How often should I review my will?
What is a last will and testament, and why do I need one?
A last will and testament is a legal document that spells out how your assets should be distributed and who should care for your minor children after your passing. Without a will, South Carolina law makes these decisions for you, which may not align with your wishes.
What happens if I die without a will in South Carolina?
If you pass away without a will, state law — not your preferences — determines who inherits your property. This process, known as intestate succession, can be slow, costly, and stressful for your loved ones.
Does a will have to be notarized in South Carolina?
While notarization isn’t required, your will must be signed by you and witnessed by two individuals. Notarization is recommended to make the probate process smoother and help confirm the validity of your document.
What is a pour-over will, and how does it work?
A pour-over will works with your trust to ensure any assets not placed into the trust during your lifetime are “poured over” into it after your passing. This keeps your plan complete and your assets properly managed.
How do I name a guardian for my children in my will?
Your will allows you to name a trusted person to serve as your child’s guardian if something happens to you. Without this designation, the court decides who takes on that role, which may not align with your wishes.
Can I update my will after it’s signed?
Yes. You can revise or replace your will at any time while you’re alive and mentally capable. We recommend reviewing your will every three to five years or after major life events to ensure it stays current.
What’s the difference between a will and a trust?
A will only takes effect after you pass and must go through probate, while a trust takes effect immediately and allows assets to transfer privately, often more quickly and efficiently. Most families benefit from having both tools in their plan.
How much does it cost to have a will drafted in South Carolina?
Costs vary depending on your needs, but we provide clear, upfront pricing during your consultation. We tailor every will to fit your unique situation and budget.
Who should be my executor?
Your executor should be someone you trust to manage your affairs, stay organized, and communicate clearly with your beneficiaries. Many people choose a spouse, adult child, or trusted friend.
How often should I review my will?
Review your will every three to five years, or whenever a major life event occurs, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or a significant change in your financial situation.
Plan Ahead With Confidence
A will is one of the simplest but most important steps you can take to protect your family. Take control of your future today by scheduling a free consultation with a Lexington last will and testament lawyer at Johnson + Johnson Attorneys at Law.
