Will (law)

A will or testament is a legal document that explains the last wishes of someone after they die. It is sometimes called a "last will and testament".

A person writes a will and testament before they die, and usually writes what they want to happen to their estate (money and their things) after they die. A will may also provide for other issues including,
 Stating preferences for funeral arrangements,
 Designating a guardian for a minor child,
 Preventing will contests, and
 Making gifts to charities.

When a person passes away, the person's will may be probated, meaning that a probate court will authorize a representative to carry out the deceased person's wishes. Depending upon where probate occurs, the representative may be called a personal representative, executor or administrator.

References

Category:Death customs
Category:Documents
Category:Property law