General preparation information. A professional relationship begins only under the terms agreed with the lawyer or firm.
A will generally directs probate property at death, nominates an executor, and can nominate guardians for minor children.
Build the meeting agenda
- A will does not normally control property that passes by survivorship, beneficiary designation, trust ownership, or another contract-based transfer.
Bring evidence, not just recollections
- the signed original will and every codicil
- a list of assets showing title and beneficiary designations
Scope, cost, and next steps
- Which assets would actually be controlled by the will?
- What execution rules apply in the signing state?
Risks to pause on
- Treating a draft, photocopy, or unsigned file as the operative original can create avoidable probate disputes.