Tempe, AZ asked in Estate Planning for Arizona

Q: How do I go about writing a will in this situation?

I am a middle aged woman who is receiving SSI, and I would like to write a will. Upon my death, I plan on giving all of my household goods to a thrift store, and I would like to place money on the side to pay for any outstanding debts. Also, I am concerned about my personal information regarding my electronics (desktop computer, tablet, phone) and paper documents, so I would like to have all of these items shredded for security purposes. I have no one to appoint as executor for a will and nobody to witness it. Would Legal Aid help me? If a guardian is appointed after my death, how would he know that I have a will, if I've created one by myself? Is it appropriate to place my concerns regarding shredding of sensitive information in a will?

Thank you for your response.

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2 Lawyer Answers
Andre L. Pennington
PREMIUM
Andre L. Pennington
Answered
  • Estate Planning Lawyer
  • Surprise, AZ
  • Licensed in Arizona

A: It is always tricky drafting legal documents without the assistance of a professional. I recommend talking with an experienced estate planning attorney or at minimum a certified legal document preparer. He or she can help you get squared away. Have a wonderful day!

1 user found this answer helpful

Ilene L McCauley
PREMIUM
Ilene L McCauley
Answered
  • Estate Planning Lawyer
  • Scottsdale, AZ
  • Licensed in Arizona

A: Thank you so much for your questions.

I will try to answer you as best I can. A Last Will is designed to transfer assets to your loved ones at your death. A Last Will must be entered into Probate Court in order to work. Probate can be an expensive process. The person who is appointed to administer your will is called a Personal Representative (PR). The PR would pay your bills and handle whatever is needed.

But first, you need to have someone you trust, to do these jobs for you. Are you certain there is no one? A lawyer can help you make this decision. We don't have Legal Aid in Arizona, however there are volunteer lawyers through the State Bar of Arizona who could help you. When you are ready call them at 602.340.7239.

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