Christopher S. Nudo, Attorney at Law Assists With Writing a Last Will and Testament for Clients in Evanston, IL
A will is a formal document that allows you to provide for the distribution of your estate when you die. An estate consists of real property, or land, personal property (bank accounts, automobiles) and intangible property (claims, rights, interests) that you own at the time of your death.
Who Can Make a Will in Evanston Illinois?
Illinois law provides that any person, or testator, 18 years old or older can make a will, provided they are of sound mind and memory and not under restraint.
Sound mind and memory assumes that the testator understands:
- The act of writing a will
- The general extent of the property they own
- Their relationship with their family
- Who they are giving their property to
Not under restraint means that the person making the will was not defrauded or unduly influenced at the time the will was written.
What Must be Done to Make a Will?
A will must be in writing, either handwritten or typed. The person making the will must date and sign it on the last page in front of two competent witnesses, who see the signature when it is made and hear the testator acknowledge that the will is his/hers.
Witnesses must be at least 18 years of age. They must sign the will and can also testify that the person making the will was of sound mind and memory and not under restraint. Another person can sign the will if directed to do so by the testator.
Need help writing your will? The attorneys at Christopher S. Nudo, Attorney at Law provide personal service and will take the time to help you make your wishes known. In Evanston contact them online or call (847)-737-1800 to set up your free initial consultation today.
