In either case, the two documents are read together, but as to inconsistent provisions, the later document controls and revokes by inconsistency the provisions of the earlier document. To make sure that revocation by inconsistency does not occur, codicils should state that they reaffirm all aspects of the will to which they are added and only intend to change the subject of the codicil. If a testator writes a new will, he or she should include a statement in the new will that revokes all previous wills and codicils. If major changes to a will are contemplated, it is best to start from scratch and write a whole new will, so that revocation problems are minimized. Even though a holographic will is valid, it is prudent for people considering their estate plan to consult an attorney.
Attorneys are familiar with the changing face of estates law.
Many areas, such as tax law, family law, and commercial law, can have an impact on the goals of an estate plan. Attorneys are trained to look for and deal with potential problems before they arise. A well-intentioned but uninformed person may create a will or estate plan that could cause ill feeling among relatives and survivors, leave assets unprotected or subject to dissolution, or even leave some legatees with nothing due to adverse tax consequences. An attorney familiar with probate and estate law can develop an estate plan that maximizes the benefit to survivors and minimizes adverse and unwanted repercussions. Even people with small or moderate estates can benefit from the estate planning advice an attorney can provide to make sure that important goals like providing for a child's education can still be met despite the death of a parent.