ideas on a will for a defacto family?

Question

What is the fairest way to do my will. I have 2 kids for a previous marriage. I sold my house with a profit of about 85,000. to build a new house with my partner that had nothing form a previous marriage. I even helped him pay off his debts a 5,000 credit card and payed 7,000 towards a car in his name which i drive. My partner has 3 kids that live with his ex. I want to do the right thing by my kids if i should die, any suggestions.

Answer 1

You don't say if you're married. Let's talk about the law. The law assumes you will leave stuff to "the natural objects of your bounty", which begins with your spouse, then your kids and your parents, then your brothers and sisters, etc. If you want to make specific bequests, you have to make a will and spell out what you want to do. Remember, when the will is in operation you aren't going to be around to take any heat...or thanks for that matter. If you want to benefit your children, spell it out. If you want to benefit your partner, spell it out. If you feel you have already benefited your partner go ahead and leave everything to your kids. If you want to honor your partner's kids, do so. There is no law that says everything has to be left equally. I strongly recommend you consult with an attorney because each state has different laws on inheritance and you don't want to declare an intention in your will that won't be carried out the way you intended. Also, remember, your feelings may change so you might ask the attorney about escape clauses and making changes to the will. Good luck.

Answer 2

if you love them a ll then treat them all the same