- 1). Create a list of all property that should be distributed after your death. The property list should include land, homes, and vehicles registered in your name. In addition to large assets, the property list should account for all household goods, furniture, clothing, jewelry, and belongings that will need to be distributed. Georgia law does not require individuals to account for bank accounts, IRAs, and accounts with rights to survivorship or death beneficiary designations.
- 2). Choose an executor to handle the distribution of property and a trustee to manage estates for minor children, disabled or incapable adults, or individuals who many need to be protected from creditors. If no trustee or executor is designated in a will, the court will manage the estate. Family members can regain control of the estate, but they must file a petition with the court, post a surety bond, and provide the court with periodic reports regarding the estate.
- 3). Contact an attorney with experience creating valid Georgia wills. The laws affecting wills change often, and to ensure that your will is created correctly, an attorney should be consulted. Most Georgia attorneys charge an hourly fee for will preparation. The exact amount of time needed for a consultation varies depending on the size of the estate and the existence of dependents.
- 4). Review the completed will and sign it in the presence of a witness. The witness cannot be an individual who is named as a beneficiary in the will. Periodic changes can be made to a will with the assistance of an attorney. Changes or updates should be made to include new spouses, adopted children, and other family members not previously mentioned in the will.
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