Preparing a will is one of the most responsible decisions you can make for your future. It gives you the power to decide what happens to your property, who takes care of your children, and how your final wishes are carried out. Without one, North Carolina makes these choices for you—and often not the way you’d prefer.
Our Charlotte-based estate planning firm helps individuals and families in Matthews, NC and surrounding areas create strong, enforceable wills that reflect their values and priorities. Whether you’re starting fresh or updating an old document, we’ll make the process easy to understand and tailored to your needs.
Why You Need a Will in North Carolina
If you pass away without a will, your assets are divided under North Carolina’s intestacy laws. This process follows a strict legal formula that doesn’t consider your unique family dynamics, relationships, or personal intentions. For example, stepchildren or close friends may receive nothing—even if you considered them part of your family.
A valid will lets you avoid those outcomes. It gives you control over how your estate is distributed and ensures that the people you trust are the ones making decisions. Whether your estate is large or modest, a will can help your loved ones avoid confusion, reduce potential conflicts, and move forward with less stress.
Essential Elements of a Will
Each will should be customized, but there are some key decisions that everyone should consider:
Beneficiary Designations
Your will names who should receive your money, property, and possessions. This could include real estate, vehicles, heirlooms, and sentimental items.
Instructions for Specific Gifts
You can also include individual gifts for loved ones, friends, or charities. These specific instructions help avoid misunderstandings and ensure your legacy is distributed exactly the way you want.
Guardianship Appointments
Parents of minor children can name someone to serve as legal guardian. This helps ensure your children are raised by someone you know and trust, rather than leaving it up to the court.
Executor Appointment
The executor is the person responsible for making sure your will is followed. They’ll handle debts, distribute assets, and work with the probate court.
How a Wills Lawyer Serving Matthews, NC Can Help
North Carolina has strict rules for what makes a will valid. Even small mistakes can cause delays or lead to legal disputes. By working with a wills lawyer who serves the Matthews area, you’ll get personalized support and peace of mind that your documents are legally sound.
Our attorneys regularly work with the Mecklenburg County Courthouse in Charlotte and the Clerk of Superior Court to ensure your will is properly executed and enforceable.
In addition to drafting your will, we’ll make sure it works alongside other estate planning tools like trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives. Our goal is to create a complete, coordinated plan that protects you now and in the future.
How to Make a Legally Valid Will in Matthews, NC
If you’re wondering when to write a will—the answer is simple: sooner is better. Anyone who owns property, has children, or wants to control how their estate is handled should have a will in place.
Creating a will with our Charlotte-based estate planning firm, serving Matthews clients, is a straightforward process:
- Initial Consultation – We talk with you to understand your goals, family structure, and what assets you want to include.
- Customized Drafting – We prepare a legally valid will that meets all North Carolina requirements and reflects your wishes.
- Signing – You’ll sign the will in front of two witnesses, and we’ll help you add a self-proving affidavit to simplify probate later.
- Secure Storage & Future Updates – We’ll offer guidance on where to store your will and remind you to review it as your life changes.
You’ll leave the process with a complete, enforceable will—and the peace of mind that comes with having a plan.
When Should You Update Your Will?
Your will isn’t something you create once and forget. It should reflect your current life circumstances and relationships. Here are common reasons to revisit and revise your will:
- Marriage or divorce – Changing your marital status affects who inherits and who has legal authority.
- Birth or adoption of a child – You may want to add guardians or new beneficiaries.
- Buying property or starting a business – Major assets should be included in your estate plan.
- A death in the family – If a named beneficiary or executor passes away, your will may need changes.
- Relocation to or from North Carolina – Estate laws vary by state, and your will may require updates to stay valid.
Even if you haven’t had a major life change, it’s smart to review your will every few years to make sure it still fits your goals.
FAQs About Wills in Matthews, NC
Can I use an online template to create a will?
Online forms may seem easy, but they often leave out critical details or fail to meet North Carolina’s legal standards. A lawyer helps ensure your will is clear, complete, and enforceable.
Is a handwritten will legal in North Carolina?
Handwritten (or “holographic”) wills may be recognized, but they’re often contested or rejected. A formal, attorney-prepared will is far more reliable.
What’s the probate process like in Mecklenburg County?
After death, your will must be filed with the Clerk of Superior Court. The process is easier when the will is properly executed and includes a self-proving affidavit.
Can I leave unequal gifts to my children?
Yes. You can divide your estate however you choose, but working with a lawyer helps you explain your intentions clearly to avoid future disputes.
How does a will differ from a trust?
A will outlines your wishes after death and requires probate. A trust can manage assets during your lifetime and may help your heirs avoid probate altogether.
Speak with a Wills Lawyer Serving Matthews, NC Today
Whether you’re creating a will for the first time or need to revise one that’s out of date, our Charlotte-based wills lawyers are here to help individuals and families in Matthews protect their futures. We’ll take the time to understand your goals, walk you through your options, and create a plan that protects your family.
Contact us today or call (704) 766-8836 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward peace of mind and legal clarity.
