A will is one of the most important legal documents you can have. It allows you to decide who receives your property, who takes care of your children, and who manages your estate after you pass away. Without a will, North Carolina law makes those decisions for you—often in ways that may not reflect your wishes.
Our Charlotte-based estate planning law firm proudly serves clients in Monroe, Union County, and the surrounding region. Whether you’re creating a will for the first time or updating an existing one, our experienced attorneys will guide you through every step with clarity and compassion.
Why Should You Have a Will?
A legally valid will ensures that your assets are distributed the way you want. It gives you the power to name beneficiaries, assign guardians for minor children, and choose someone to carry out your wishes. If you die without a will, your estate goes through intestate succession, where the court distributes your property based on a fixed order of relatives—regardless of your personal preferences.
Even if your estate is small or straightforward, a will can help reduce stress and confusion for your loved ones. It also makes the probate process easier and allows you to leave personal items, donations, or property to the people or causes you care about most.
What to Include in Your Will
Every will is different, but most include a few key components that help make your intentions clear:
Naming Beneficiaries
You can name one or more people (or organizations) to receive your assets. This can include everything from real estate and bank accounts to family heirlooms or business interests.
Choosing a Guardian
If you have children under 18 or a loved one with special needs, your will allows you to name a legal guardian. This helps prevent court disputes and gives you peace of mind that your children will be cared for by someone you trust.
Naming an Executor
The executor is the person responsible for managing your estate after you pass away. They’ll handle tasks like filing your will in probate court, paying debts, and distributing property. Choosing someone reliable is key.
Detailing Your Wishes
A will can also include detailed instructions, such as leaving your car to a sibling, giving a cash gift to a charity, or passing down a sentimental item to a grandchild.
How Our Charlotte Law Firm Helps Monroe Clients
Wills are only effective when they’re done properly—and that means complying with North Carolina’s legal requirements. Working with a wills lawyer based in Charlotte who regularly handles matters in Monroe ensures your document is valid, up-to-date, and truly reflects your wishes.
Our estate planning attorneys have deep experience in Union County and routinely work with the Union County Courthouse in downtown Monroe. We understand how the Clerk of Superior Court handles probate matters and can help your loved ones avoid unnecessary delays or disputes.
We also ensure your will fits into a broader estate plan. That might include a trust, power of attorney, or advance directive. These tools can protect your interests during your life and after.
How to Create Your Will in Monroe, NC
You should create a will as soon as you have property, children, or personal wishes about what happens after you’re gone. However, creating your will doesn’t have to be stressful or time-consuming. Here’s what the process typically looks like when you work with our Charlotte-based estate planning law firm serving Monroe:
- Schedule a Consultation – We meet with you to learn about your family, your assets, and your goals.
- Review Your Options – Based on your needs, we explain how your will can work alongside other estate planning tools.
- Draft Your Will – We carefully write your will according to North Carolina law.
- Execute the Document – You’ll sign your will in front of two qualified witnesses. We can also help you add a self-proving affidavit to make probate easier.
- Store Your Documents Safely – We advise you on where to store your will and how to keep it updated over time.
With our guidance, you’ll leave the process confident and secure in your plan.
When to Update Your Will
Creating your will is only the first step, and it’s important to review it over time. Consider updating your will after:
- Getting married or divorced
- Having or adopting children
- Moving to or from North Carolina
- Receiving a large inheritance or buying property
- A death in the family or a major change in your relationships
Even if nothing has changed, we recommend reviewing your will every three to five years to make sure it still reflects your wishes.
FAQs About Wills in Monroe, NC
What happens if I die without a will in North Carolina?
Your assets will be distributed based on North Carolina’s intestate succession laws. This often results in outcomes you wouldn’t choose—such as estranged family members receiving part of your estate.
Do wills have to be notarized in North Carolina?
Not necessarily, but adding a self-proving affidavit (which is notarized) can speed up the probate process by proving the will is valid without needing your witnesses to testify.
Can I write my own will in Monroe?
It’s possible to create a handwritten or online will, but simple mistakes can lead to costly disputes or cause the will to be thrown out. Working with an attorney ensures your will is legally enforceable and complete.
What’s the difference between a will and a trust?
A will goes through probate and handles what happens after you pass away. A trust can take effect during your lifetime and may allow your family to avoid probate altogether.
Work with a Charlotte Wills Lawyer Serving Monroe Today
Having a will is one of the most important things you can do to protect your loved ones and preserve your legacy. Don’t leave these decisions up to chance—or to the courts.
Our Charlotte-based wills lawyers proudly serve clients throughout Monroe and Union County. We’re here to help you create a plan that reflects your goals and values.
Contact us today or call (704) 766-8836 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward peace of mind.
