Life does not stay the same, and neither should your estate planning documents. Changing your mind about who should receive a certain asset or the person you have chosen as your executor is not uncommon, and does not always require writing a completely new Will.
Codicils in Coral Gables are legal documents that modify pre-existing legally valid Wills. They allow you to make updates without rewriting your Will, but they must meet specific legal standards to hold up in court. An experienced Wills attorney could help you ensure changes are made correctly, and that they do not create more problems than they solve.
People use codicils for many different reasons, including changing who inherits a specific asset, naming a different personal representative, or adjusting a guardian designation. It is a useful tool when the rest of your estate plan still works for you, allowing you to change a few details without discarding the whole document.
Like your original Will, codicils must meet state legal requirements and be signed in front of two witnesses. Your witnesses cannot be anyone who could benefit from the changes, otherwise the codicil may be considered invalid, leaving your estate in limbo.
When clients in Coral Gables have multiple assets and business interests, even small changes require the help of a professional to ensure your codicil meets the required legal standards.
Codicils can be efficient, but they are not without risk. If they are not written clearly, or if they contradict something in your original Will, they could cause confusion for your loved ones.
Over time, a Coral Gables resident might create several codicils, each making different changes. This is referred to as “stacking” and could make your final wishes harder to interpret, increasing the chance of later legal disputes.
Emotions may also play a part in family members questioning whether your changes reflect your true wishes, especially if they alter major provisions. We could help you ensure everything is properly documented, witnessed, and clearly explained. We could also help you understand whether drafting a new Will is the cleaner option, depending on what you are trying to change and how long it has been since the original was written.
Deciding whether to use a codicil or create a new Will is not always easy. At Veliz & Associates, P.A., we take the time to understand your goals before making a recommendation. If a codicil makes sense, we could ensure it is executed correctly and fits within your broader estate plan. If not, we may discuss other options with you that offer more clarity and protection.
We have helped many clients update their estate documents with confidence. Whether it is a small change or something bigger, you should work with a professional.
Codicils can be a smart way to update your wishes in Coral Gables, without starting over. With trusted guidance, you could make adjustments that protect both your assets and your peace of mind. Call our local estate planning lawyer today to explore whether a codicil is the right step for revising your Will.
We evaluate your case and determine how we might be able to help.
We will meet with you to discuss your next options and lay out a plan.
Our team guides you throughout the process so you feel confident about your choices.
(305) 250-9917