Secure Your Family’s Future With A Trusted Manchester Will Lawyer

When you have worked hard to build a life for your family, it’s normal to want to ensure that they are secure, no matter what happens. A last will and testament can provide that protection and peace of mind. Without one, New Hampshire state law will determine the distribution of your assets, which may not match your wishes.

At Craighead & Martin, PLLC, Attorney Joanne Craighead understands that this process can feel overwhelming. As your legal counsel, she is ready to provide clear, compassionate guidance, ensuring that your will is perfectly aligned with your intentions.

Why Is It Important To Write A Will?

This vital document allows you to:

• Direct your asset distribution: You decide who inherits your property, from family members and friends to specific charities you support.
• Name your executor: You can choose a person or institution you trust to handle your estate administration. This is the process of managing your estate, paying final bills and ensuring your assets go where you intended.
• Nominate a guardian for minor children: For parents, this is often the most critical part of a will. It allows you to nominate a person you trust to care for your children if you are no longer able.

If you pass away without a legal will in New Hampshire, the law considers you “intestate.” This means that state law controls where and to whom your assets are distributed. Instead of following your wishes, the probate court must follow a rigid state formula to distribute your property.

This “intestate succession” law typically gives assets to your closest surviving relatives in a specific order: first to your spouse and children, then to parents or other relatives. This succession also does not account for blended families, unmarried partners, or your desire to provide for a close friend or a specific cause. Dying intestate puts the final decisions in the hands of the state, not in yours.

A Will Is Only One Part Of An Estate Plan

For many families, a simple will is an effective estate planning tool. However, your assets will still need to go through the probate process. A New Hampshire probate court will need to validate the will and formally appoint your executor before your assets can be legally transferred to your beneficiaries.

For a more comprehensive estate plan, you may want to consider drafting other documents, such as:

• Trusts: A trust is a legal agreement where a trustee takes responsibility for managing assets for the benefit of someone else, known as the beneficiary. A revocable trust, or living trust, is often used for avoiding probate and for a private and smoother transfer of property. You can create one type of trust, called a testamentary trust, inside your will. It only forms after your death, managing assets for young beneficiaries or family members with special needs.
• Powers of attorney: These are legal documents that plan for your own potential incapacity. A financial power of attorney allows you to name someone to manage your finances. A health care power of attorney is usually a part of an advanced care plan. It lets you name someone to make medical decisions for you, but only if you become incapacitated and cannot make them yourself.

As your estate planning attorney, Attorney Craighead will work meticulously to create a comprehensive plan for your family. She dedicates her practice to proactive planning and estate administration, rather than will contests and litigation. This means that her entire focus is on creating clear, solid documents to prevent future conflict. Attorney Craighead will listen to your goals, explain your options clearly and make sure you understand every document you sign.

When To Update Your Will

Creating a will is not a one-time event. As your life changes, your estate plan should change with it. Consider reviewing and updating a will after major events such as:

• Marriage, divorce or remarriage
• The birth or adoption of a child
• The death of a beneficiary, executor or guardian
• A significant change in your financial situation
• A move to another state

Working with a seasoned will lawyer in keeping your document current ensures that it continues to reflect your intentions and protects the people you care about most.

Get Clear, Compassionate Guidance From Craighead & Martin, PLLC

Taking this step is an important act of care for your family. When you are ready to discuss your goals, contact Craighead & Martin, PLLC. Attorney Craighead is ready to listen to your situation and guide you through the process with the personal attention you deserve. Call the firm at 603-795-7308 or send them a message to schedule your consultation.