Sample Last Will and Testament: A Guide for Creating Your Own Legal Document

I, [Your Name], of [Your Address], being of sound mind, do hereby declare this to be my last will and testament.

  1. Appointment of Executor: I hereby appoint [Name of Executor] to be the executor of this my will. In the event that [Name of Executor] is unable or unwilling to serve, I appoint [Name of Alternate Executor] to serve as executor.

  2. Distribution of Assets:

a. I give, devise and bequeath to my spouse, [Name of Spouse], all of my property, both real and personal, including but not limited to, my residence at [Address of Residence], and all the furniture, fixtures, and personal effects therein.

b. I give, devise and bequeath to my children, [Name of Children], in equal shares, all of my other assets, including but not limited to, my bank accounts, investments and life insurance policies.

  1. Provision for Minor Children: If any of my children are under the age of 18 at the time of my death, I appoint [Name of Guardian] to be their guardian and give, devise and bequeath to said guardian, for the use and benefit of said minor children, the sum of [$Amount] to be used for their care and support.

  2. Special Needs and Considerations:

a. If I have a child with special needs, I give, devise and bequeath to [Name of Trustee], for the use and benefit of [Name of Child with Special Needs], the sum of [$Amount] to be held in trust for the support, care and education of said child.

b. If I have any pets, I give, devise and bequeath to [Name of Pet Caretaker], for the use and benefit of my pets, the sum of [$Amount] to be used for their care and well-being.

  1. Revocation of Prior Wills: I hereby revoke any and all wills and codicils heretofore made by me.

  2. Governing Law: This will shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of [Your State].

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have signed and executed this will on the date and year first above written.


[Your Signature]

WITNESSES:


[Name of Witness 1] [Name of Witness 2]

ACKNOWLEDGMENT:

STATE OF [YOUR STATE]

COUNTY OF [YOUR COUNTY]

The above-named testator, [Your Name], personally appeared before me and acknowledged that he signed and executed the foregoing will as his free act and deed.


Notary Public/Commissioner for Oaths

This is a sample will and should not be used as a legal document. It is important to consult with an attorney and have the will prepared and executed according to the laws of your state.

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