Wills
Thoughtful planning for your loved ones and your legacy
Writing a will that truly reflects your wishes
Clear, customized guidance from experienced attorneys
A will is one of the most important legal documents you’ll ever create. It ensures your property is distributed according to your choices, not left to state laws or court discretion. At Parker & Maloney, we help individuals and families across multiple states prepare valid, thoughtful wills that bring clarity and peace of mind. Whether your estate is modest or complex, our attorneys make the process straightforward, transparent, and designed around your specific goals.
Why every adult needs a will
Protecting your family starts with preparation
Many people assume wills are only for those with large estates, but they’re essential for anyone who wants a say in how their affairs are handled. A well-drafted will outlines who inherits your assets, who manages your estate, and who cares for your minor children. Without one, state law decides those matters for you, often in ways that don’t reflect your wishes. Our attorneys help you anticipate potential issues, minimize conflict, and leave a clear plan that makes things easier for your loved ones.
What’s included in a comprehensive will
Planning for more than just assets
When we draft a will, we look at the full picture—your family, your property, and your future. Every client’s situation is different, but most plans include the following key components:
- Executor/Personal Representative Designation – Naming a responsible person to carry out your wishes and manage estate matters with efficiency and care.
- Asset distribution – Specifying who inherits what, including personal belongings, real estate, and financial accounts, so your intentions are honored completely.
- Guardianship provisions – Ensuring that children or dependents are cared for by someone you trust, avoiding uncertainty during a difficult time.
Each will we prepare is tailored to fit your circumstances and can evolve as your life changes.
Updating your will over time
Keeping your plans current and effective
Life doesn’t stand still, and neither should your will. Major life events such as marriage, divorce, relocation, or new business ventures can all change your estate needs. Our firm provides ongoing support at your request to update and refine your documents whenever necessary. We make it simple to revise existing plans so they continue to reflect your current situation, your assets, and your intentions. Staying proactive now prevents confusion and unnecessary costs for your family later.
Related estate planning services
How we make the process simple
A clear path from consultation to completion
Our process begins with a conversation—not paperwork. We take the time to understand your goals, explain your options, and prepare a draft that covers all key areas of your estate. Once finalized, your will is reviewed together in plain language to ensure it says exactly what you mean. We also offer flat-fee arrangements for many standard plans, giving you cost certainty and confidence from start to finish.
Common questions about creating a will
Answers to help you plan with confidence
Can I write my own will without a lawyer?
While you can write a will on your own, it’s easy to make mistakes that cause problems later. Many do-it-yourself wills fail to meet legal execution requirements or omit key details, which can lead to disputes or delays in probate. Working with an attorney ensures your document is properly witnessed, signed, and enforceable in your state. The small investment now can save your family time, stress, and significant expense later.
How often should I update my will?
You should review your will every few years or after major life changes such as marriage, divorce, or new property purchases. Laws and family circumstances can shift over time, making older documents incomplete or outdated. Regular updates ensure your will still reflects your current wishes and covers all your assets. Our firm can review and revise your documents efficiently, keeping them legally sound and up to date.
What happens if I die without a will?
If you pass away without a will, state laws determine who inherits your property. This process, called intestate succession, might not align with your personal wishes or your family’s needs. It can also create unnecessary costs, delays, and emotional strain for your loved ones. Having a valid will ensures your estate is handled according to your instructions instead of a default formula.
Do I need both a will and a trust?
In many situations, having both documents provides the most complete and reliable protection. A will ensures that any remaining assets are distributed properly and also names guardians or personal representatives, while a trust allows selected assets to transfer outside of probate. When used together, they create a coordinated plan that covers situations during life, at incapacity, and after death. We also discuss the importance of keeping these documents in a safe place so they can be accessed quickly when needed. Our attorneys help you determine whether a trust is appropriate based on your goals, assets, and overall family needs.
Where should I keep my original will?
It’s important to keep your original signed will in a secure place that is still easily accessible to the person who will need it—your executor. Many clients use a fireproof home safe or choose to store the original at our office for added security and reliability. A bank safe deposit box is usually not a good option unless someone else already has independent access, since your executor may be unable to open it when the document is needed most. Copies can be shared with trusted family members or advisors, but the original should always be stored where it can be located quickly to avoid delays or complications.