For example, I'd like to write out a specific plan of how I want my funeral to be arranged when the time comes. Do I need a lawyer for this or what?
2007-02-23 09:51:32 · 8 answers · asked by Anonymous in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
Also, how do I let my family know about this document without weirding them out. I'm not sick or dying and I'm healthy and 25. Just being prepared!
2007-02-23 09:52:19 · update #1
I'm 25, single (may marry w/i next year or so), no children, mom's deceased, father's not in picture much.... So far. Of course, this will probably change as time goes on.
2007-02-23 10:00:38 · update #2
LOL @ Click.... It's Power of Attorney, but I like your sense of humor!
2007-02-23 10:01:38 · update #3
The plan for your funeral can be arranged in advance with a funeral home. However, when I do estate planning for a client, I include a document I created called "Statement of Disposition." It contains whatever details my client wants. I think it is extremely helpful to your family to know your desires. This eliminates their needed to agonize about what you want. If you do such a document, the safest thing to do is write out your plans and have the document witnessed by 2 individuals and signed before a notary. To my knowledge, there is no law directly on point on this issue. The better alternative is to do a Living Will or a Right to Die Statement (they are the same thing, just different names). My Living Wills states whether you want artificial hydration, artificial nutrition, life support, pain medication or antibiotics if you do NOT have an infectious disease that is a danger to others. Many people with life threatening illnesses may actually die from pneumonia, for example, which is generally not a threat to others. In the document appoint a person who you trust to carry out your wishes. I suggest you appoint an alternative person if the first person is unable or unavailable when needed. The document can also contain organ donor wishes and, for example, cremation instead of burial. I often say: "I have enjoyed the love and support of my family during my lifetime and I direct my family not to spend their assets on an elaborate or expensive funeral." Some of my clients want the Mass of Christian Burial if they are Catholic or have particular choices for music. You do not need a lawyer for this and many states have Living Will forms in their state law that can be copied and filed out. What is important is that the document be properly executed. Again, 2 witnesses and you should sign the document in the presence of a notary. This may be something you want an attorney to do for you. This should be inexpensive. I charge $250 for a Will, a Power of Attorney (which you also need). a Right to Die Statement and a Statement of Disposition. This is a very wise move for you. Even though you didn't ask, you really should do a Power of Attorney to give someone authority to make medical decisions for you if you are unable to do so. In my state, this form is also in the state statutes. To see if your state has a form, you might try searching (name of your state here)findlaw.com
2007-02-23 10:14:47 · answer #1 · answered by David M 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
There is software you can get that draws up minor things such as living wills, and no-fault simple divorces. Nowadays, things are probated forever, so it would be best to go through a lawyer, but it may not even matter in the end (no pun intended). I would say, if you are just considering it as a matter of insurance and peace of mind, draw something up and have it notarized and witnessed by two people. At least it would be a starting point, if god forbid, something did happen to you. If you have children or and estate of any real value, definetely get a lawyer. ALso, there is some hotline for people to get cheap legal advice for such things, or a paralegal to draw up the papers- I think it's called power to the people or something.
2007-02-23 09:59:45 · answer #2 · answered by Clickshutterclick 2 · 1⤊ 2⤋
In most states, what you are trying to do can not be done. Even with a lawyer, you can not do it. Most states have determined that funerals and/or cremation are for the living...not the deceased.
The best way to accomplish what you want is to preplan it with a funeral home. BUT even if you do that, your spouse (if you have one) or your children CAN make changes to your plan if they want to.
2007-02-24 02:51:25 · answer #3 · answered by J. B 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Join a pre-paid legal service. It is very affordable (like $9.99 a month) and well worth it. It includes a free Will and many other things your assigned law firm will do. There are also on-line legal form sites that are 100% valid and legal.
2007-02-23 09:57:05 · answer #4 · answered by aiminhigh24u2 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
You can get a notary public to witness your signature to legalize it. You will also need two other witnesses.
2007-02-23 11:48:07 · answer #5 · answered by Çåŗőľîņẫ§ħŷġĭ®ł 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Try the sites below.
2007-02-23 10:58:17 · answer #6 · answered by citronge69 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you can buy a will at any office supply store and you should get it notarized. if you have children, you should go to a lawyer and do a will
2007-02-23 09:57:20 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
Having a notary watch you sign it and then put their stamp and signature on it will help.
2007-02-23 09:56:55 · answer #8 · answered by Kevin A 6 · 2⤊ 1⤋