Might I add that you also need to list back-up back-up executors. For the sake that an appointed executor has the right to decline the position. There is a lot of responsibility that goes along with being an executor beyond the usual “take care of business things.” You become legally responsible for making the right decisions regarding what and how to handle the working out of the will.

If the will maker owns a home and sells it while infirm, (heavily medicated and should not be signing anything) and the son/executor of the infirm sells it to himself just days before the person dies while the will maker is jacked up on medication’s, this opens the door to new ramifications of also knowing he is the executor should anyone bring it to the attention of the court.

If the person was on any kind of assistance for medical care and while infirm the son/executor did not report items of the will maker as being sold leading up to the date of death of the will maker, then the executor can face later legal ramifications for that also should it be brought to the attention of the court as the executor knew he was not only the son, but executor and handling all the financial responsibilities during and leading up to the dieing of the will maker and therefore, had a responsibility to report the sale of items for reimbursement to the place of assistance when said items were sold.

Another thing that needs listing is, if the infirm wants anyone to be provided with living in the home after their demise, it needs to be stated.

Should the maker of the will want none of their property to go to their relatives, but go to someone or thing else, then it needs to be stated why and very clearly so. From what I know, (may not hold true in all atates, check for your individual state to be sure) you are only required to leave a dollar to anyone left out of the will to satisfy the court.

A will may not be made while under duress, illness, or while on any drugs/medication’s that can affect one’s decision making. Must be of sound mind and body as wills usually state.

A will cannot be changed under duress, illness, or while on any drugs/medication’s that can affect one’s decision making. Must be of sound mind and body as wills usually state.

They also say even if you think you have nothing to leave to anyone, it is still advisable to make a will. You may hit the million dollar lottery the day before your death or the hour thereof. Wouldn’t you want it to go to those you know and love instead of a judge who makes that decision with no clue as to why you would want it to go to anyone in particular? Also, we all own furniture, pictures, some jewelry and just things that I am sure someone in your family has admired and would rather have than to just give them to whomever by a court decision of someone you do not know. Sort of like going up to a stranger on the street and asking them to disperse your life belongings for you!

I hope this adds to some of the excellent points already made in Ron’s will making knowledge and responsibilites that go along with it.