At Foley Freeman, PLLC, our Meridian will attorney is an experienced, knowledgeable, and solutions-focused advocate for clients. We have the estate planning expertise that you can rely on. If you have any questions about wills, we are here to help. Contact us at our Meridian law office today for a confidential consultation with a top-tier Idaho estate planning attorney.
What is a Will and Why Do You Need One?
A will is a foundational estate planning document. A valid will allows you to name beneficiaries, appoint a personal representative (executor), and designate guardians for minor children. Without one, your estate is distributed according to intestate succession laws, which may not reflect your intentions. Every adult in Meridian should have a valid will.
Know the Requirements for a Will in Idaho
There are specific requirements that must be satisfied for a will to be valid in Idaho. Here is an overview of the criteria that must be met:
- Written: The will must be in writing; oral wills are not recognized in Idaho.
- Capacity: The testator (writing) must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind.
- Signature: The will must be signed by the testator or by another person at their direction.
- Witnesses: At least two competent witnesses must sign the will in the testator’s presence.
Note: A notarized affidavit under Idaho Code § 15-2-504 can make the will “self-proving,” reducing the need for witness testimony during probate.
Why Trust Foley Freeman for Help With Your Will
Writing a will can be complicated. At Foley Freeman, PLLC, we are here to make sure that your will (and the rest of your estate plan) most effectively protects your rights and achieves your goals. You learn more about the firm and reach out to us directly with any questions or concerns. Among other things, our Meridian estate planning lawyer is here to:
- Listen to your story and answer questions about your will;
- Gather and organize all supporting documents and records; and
- Write or revise a will that best protects your rights and your interests.
Wills in Meridian, ID: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does a will have to be notarized to be valid in Idaho?
No. Under Idaho Code § 15-2-502, notarization is not required for a will to be valid. However, adding a self-proving affidavit does allow the will to be admitted to probate without witness testimony. That is useful because it can speed up the process.
Can I change or revoke my will after it is signed?
Yes. Idaho law permits revocation through a subsequent will or by physically destroying the prior document with the intent to revoke. As long as you still have legal capacity, you can change or outright revoke your will.
Contact Our Meridian Will Attorney Today
At Foley Freeman, PLLC, our Meridian will attorneys are standing by, ready to help you with the drafting, review, or revision of a will. If you have any questions about wills, we are here as an estate planning resource. Contact us today for your completely confidential, no obligation initial consultation. With an office in Meridian, we help clients with wills throughout the region in Idaho.
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Mark Freeman and the Team at Foley Freeman have assisted my family & me with personal and business matters for many years. They have always provided a service that is friendly and welcoming, while implementing a professional, diligent service. They have assisted us with matters such as defense, estate planning, Buy Sell Agreements, liquidation negotiation and purchases, real estate ventures, and lien filings. I would highly recommend the team at Foley Freeman for any of your legal needs.
Show MoreI’ve had the pleasure of working with the attorneys at Foley Freeman PLLC for more than twenty years. They have professionally and successfully represented my interests in personal and business matters, including assisting with business purchase and sale agreements, contract reviews, estate planning, and arbitration issues. I recommend them without hesitation.
Show MoreMark Freeman is our most trusted attorney for all of our estate planning needs. He and his staff were of the utmost professionalism and walked my wife and me through all the steps to make sure we had our assets, including properties in multiple states, our life insurance, and money protected for our children and future family legacy. He answered every question we asked, and even addressed issues that could come up that we hadn’t thought of. I highly recommend Mark for any estate planning needs.
Show MoreFoley Freeman was amazing to work with! We have never needed legal counseling before and contacted them with time-sensitive needs. They were very kind, eager, and thoroughly explained everything to us. We were not pressured to make decisions or made to feel that our “small” legal issue was a waste of their time. Highly recommend their services to anyone with any legal needs.
Show MoreI just want to say thank you. This was the first time I have ever hired a lawyer, and I must say that I made an excellent choice when I went with you. You were very prompt in responding to my queries and did an excellent job. I will definitely recommend you to anyone in need of a lawyer.
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