Austin Probate Attorney

Reasons to Have a Will and Keep it Updated

1. Family Burden. Without a will, unnecessary burdens will be placed on family members and friends. A will can be seen as an act of compassion for those left behind. After a death, family members and friends will have to go through the person’s personal belongings. With a will, this becomes much easier as decisions won’t have to be made.


2. Later May be Too Late. The earlier a person starts keeping a will the better. Death or mental incapacity can strike at any time which leaves no opportunity for putting one’s affairs in order. When it comes to getting a will prepared, there is no time like the present. Best of all, once it has been prepared, you will have the peace of mind of knowing that you have placed your personal affairs in order.


3. Family Protection. A will is a very important piece of paper that ensures a spouse and or children are cared for after a parent or spouse is gone. The assets in the estate may be needed to keep people living in the lifestyle to which they are accustomed. Without a will, assets may be delayed or prevented from reaching those who need them that you would have wanted to have them. A will helps to ensure that your wishes will be carried out.


4. Family Harmony. A thoughtful, well-prepared will reduces the chances for family dissonance after someone in the family has died. If a lot of time is taken thinking about the will when it is being written, there is also less of a chance that it will be contested. Keeping just one signed copy, preferably the most recently revised version, also prevents family dissonance. If there is only one version available to view, it is much more difficult to contest it.

If you are in need of a will or living will, an Austin Probate Lawyer at Slater and Kennon are here to help. It is never too early to start planning and procrastination never helped anyone.


Centrally located in the Arboretum area of north Austin, the Slater & Kennon law firm represents clients in Travis County, Bastrop County, Burnet County, Williamson County, and Hays County, including the cities of Austin, San Marcos, Bastrop, Burnet, and Georgetown.