Though it can often feel overwhelming, making choices is something we often take for granted. In many instances, this is something you may not think twice about until it’s too late, and you no longer have the autonomy to make these decisions. As such, it’s critical to consider your wishes for your funeral following your passing. Though it can be unpleasant to think about, you should consider your options when estate planning. Many individuals choose to leave their funeral instructions in their Will. As such, if you’re considering this, you’ll want to keep reading to learn about your options and the importance of working with a Medina County, Ohio Will preparation lawyer to assist you through these difficult times.
What Function Does a Will Serve in Ohio?
A Will is one of the most important estate planning documents you can establish, as it serves as the foundation for the rest of your plan. Your Will is primarily used to determine how your assets will be distributed, as per your wishes. You can detail what will happen to your property, including homes, vehicles, bank accounts, and material possessions, by dictating which Beneficiaries they will go to. This ensures your belongings are distributed in a way that you approve of.
In addition, you can name someone to look after your minor children in the event that something should happen to you. By establishing guardianship, you can have peace of mind that your children will be protected no matter what and that they will be cared for by someone of your choosing.
Can I Include Funeral Instructions in This Document?
While it is legal and possible to include your wishes for burial in your Will, it may not be in your best interest to do so. This is because your funeral will likely occur before your Will has even been accessed by your Executor, as this is not the primary purpose of this document.
As such, if you have specific wishes for your funeral arrangements, it’s in your best interest to create a separate document from your Will called a Declaration for Funeral Arrangements (Disposition of Bodily Remains). This is a comprehensive document you can obtain through your county’s Probate court. This allows you to dictate your wishes and preferences for your funeral arrangements, as well as the source of the funds used for this expense.
You should also note that you need two witnesses present to sign this document, or have it notarized. Once complete, you should store it in a safe location or file it with your attorney. However, you should inform a trusted family member of its existence and location, as they must access it to help plan your funeral.
As you can see, this process can be incredibly complicated to navigate, as making errors can result in your plan being deemed invalid. That is why it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney at Krause Law to guide you through these difficult times. Our team will do everything possible to help you achieve peace of mind for the future. Contact us today to learn how we can fight for you.
