The Problem With Holographic Wills

A holographic will can be very useful. But, they often come with several major problems, all of which make developing a holographic will somewhat unwise.

Going over the problem with holographic wills, and speaking with a lawyer who specializes in estate planning, will allow you to satisfy your estate planning needs. 

What Is A Holographic Will? 

A holographic will is a will that is written in one’s own handwriting.

Just as an example, if you write a will on several pieces of notebook paper, using your own handwriting, then you have made a holographic will.

Even though holographic wills can be valid, they come with a number of problems. 

What Is The Problem With Holographic Wills? 

The problem with holographic wills is as follows: most of them are invalid and, as such, the wishes that have been outlined within them cannot be executed.

A holographic will is invalid if it was written in your own handwriting and, then, signed by you.

On the other hand, if you develop a handwritten will and, then, sign that will in the presence of two witnesses, then your will can, and will, be considered valid.

Given the facts outlined above, developing a holographic will can be a good idea. But, even if you sign it properly and two witnesses see this occurring, there are a number of other problems that a holographic will can create.

Some of the most notable problems, that holographic wills can create, are as follows:

• A holographic will is very easy to lose.
• A holographic will might have poor handwriting that makes it hard for your wishes to be understood.
• A holographic will may not be legally sound.

Every single one of these problems can, and often does, make it considerably more difficult for the wishes outlined within your will  to be honored.

What Should You Do Instead Of Making A Holographic Will? 

The best thing you should do, instead of making a holographic will, is speaking with a lawyer.

A good lawyer will go over your estate planning needs, wishes, and goals. By doing so, your lawyer will find the best estate planning arrangement, for those needs, wishes, and goals.

If you do not work with a lawyer, then the will – or, any other estate planning arrangement – you develop may not be legally sound. This means that your wishes won’t be honored, since they do not comply with Florida’s laws.

Outside of speaking with a lawyer, you should go over all of the assets that comprise your estate. And, then, after doing so, you should use that information to clarify your estate planning needs, wishes, and goals. 

Speak With A Florida Estate Planning Lawyer Today 

If you would like to develop a good estate plan that satisfies all of your needs, you are going to need some assistance.

Speak with a Florida estate planning lawyer at the Millhorn Elder Law Planning Group today and we will help you develop an estate plan that satisfies every single one of your needs, wishes, and goals. 

Sources: 

law.cornell.edu/wex/holographic_will

law.cornell.edu/wex/estate_planning