Quick & Legal Will Book

So you're thinking about writing a will--good for you! Most of us know it's something we should do, but many of us haven't gotten around to it yet. Quick & Legal Will Book is here to help. It's the easiest, fastest way to make your own will, without the expense of a lawyer. The basic wills in this book allow you to leave your property simply and clearly, without complicated and unnecessary legal jargon.

Make a will that lets you:

• name beneficiaries to inherit your property


• choose a guardian for your children


• set up a trust for minors, and


• name an executor.

This streamlined guide includes all the forms you need to make a basic will that's tailored to your circumstances, whether you're single or married, and whether you have children or not. It also explains how to finalize your will, get it witnessed, or revoke or change your will, if necessary.

You can feel confident about preparing your own will. For over 50 years, Nolo has been the trusted name in do-it-yourself estate planning, and tens of thousands of people have made their own wills using Nolo resources. Following clear step-by-step instructions, you'll prepare a will that leaves your property as you wish, provides for the care of your minor children (if you have any), and names your executor--the person who will wrap up your estate when you die. After you've prepared your final draft, signed your will, and had it witnessed, you can rest easy knowing that you've protected and provided for your loved ones.

Although most people will have no trouble making their own will with this book, it's not for everyone. For example, residents of Louisiana and the U.S. territories should not use this book. (These wills are legal for residents of every other state and Washington, D.C.) Also, the wills in this book are basic legal documents that provide uncomplicated solutions to common estate planning concerns. If you are very wealthy, if you have complicated wishes for your property, or if you expect conflicts among your beneficiaries, then you should hire a lawyer for help.

That said, for most people, the wills provided by the Quick & Legal Will Book give you everything you need to leave your property, name your executor, and provide for your children--without the need for an attorney. And when you're finished, peace of mind will reward your effort.

The 11th edition has been revised to reflect changes in the law, including updated information about estate and gift taxes.