Protect Your Last Wishes With A Will
Last updated on June 4, 2025
When there is no certainty about what the future may bring, now is the best time to protect your wishes and assets and ensure your loved ones receive the inheritance you planned for them. Creating a will is something far too many people put off until it is too late, but with the help of a will attorney, you can have peace of mind about the future.
At the Law Offices of Tecla M. Lunak, APC, we help clients throughout the Palm Desert area create custom-tailored wills to defend their wishes and protect their loved ones. We know the intricacies of California estate planning law, and we can help you develop a will that you and your family can depend on.
How To Set Up A Will
Creating a will includes a lot of steps and requires a lot of critical thinking. The decisions you make in your will can impact the lives of your beneficiaries, so you want to be sure that you are making the right decision for everyone, especially yourself. We can guide you through the process of creating a will, including serious decisions such as:
- Deciding who receives what from your estate
- Appointing a guardian for your children
- Appointing an executor of your estate
- Properly signing the document in front of a valid witness
Making a minor mistake in the creation of a will can open the door for major contestation that can drastically alter the outcome of your estate. We are here to minimize the chances of someone contesting your will while maximizing the validity and security of your estate plan.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wills
You can contact our firm to discuss any of your estate planning concerns with our attorneys. If you have general questions about wills, you may find your answers below:
How often should I update my will?
It is generally suggested that – absent any other changes in your life – you update your will every three to five years to include new or changing assets, such as real estate, artwork, jewelry and vehicles. However, your will may need to be updated much sooner if, for example, you get married, go through a divorce, develop a serious medical condition, have a child or experience other major life events.
What happens if I die without a will?
Dying without a will is called dying “intestate.” When that happens, the state takes charge of the estate and directs its distribution according to state laws. This takes away your agency as far as deciding how you want anything to be passed to your heirs, including personal mementos. In addition, intestate succession can be a lengthy process that exposes your loved ones to significant delays and taxes. Having a will in place can help prevent disputes, taxes and mismanagement.
What is the role of an executor?
The executor of the estate is in charge of managing your assets after you pass away. Their main duties, typically, include distributing your assets to beneficiaries and paying taxes and debts. You can name anyone of legal age as your executor, but you should name someone who is well-organized, responsible and trustworthy as your executor. Talking to our attorneys can help you name and prepare your executor for their responsibilities.
What is the difference between a will and a living will?
A will is a legal document that outlines your last wishes and how you want your estate distributed. It addresses what happens to your assets after your death. A living will allows you to outline medical care and end-of-life care instructions if you develop a debilitating illness. It addresses situations that can arise before you die.
Do I need a lawyer to make a will?
Having a lawyer draft your will can help ensure your last wishes are legal and your legacy is secure. Our lawyers can help you explore your legal options when selecting beneficiaries and organizing your estate. Without legal guidance, your will may not be valid, which can lead to legal conflicts for family members.
Make Your Voice Heard
If you do not already have a will in place or have not updated the one you have for some time, reach out to us now for the legal services you need. Call us at 760-621-6113 or email a will attorney here to schedule your initial consultation today.
