A will gives you the ability to make your wishes known and ensure they’re followed after your death. It allows you to decide who will receive your property, who will manage your estate, and who will care for your minor children. Without a will, Wisconsin’s default rules take over—and they may not reflect what you would have wanted. At Borakove Osman LLC, we help you put a plan in place that reflects your goals and protects your loved ones.
What Should a Will Include?
A will can do more than simply name beneficiaries. It’s your opportunity to lay out instructions in a way that’s clear, thoughtful, and legally valid. Key elements often include:
- A personal representative (also called an executor) who will manage your estate
- Instructions for distributing property—real estate, savings, heirlooms, and more
- Guardianship designations for your minor children, if applicable
- Gifts to individuals or charities you care about
- Provisions for personal and digital property
We’ll guide you through each of these areas so your will reflects your life and values.
Wisconsin Requirements for a Valid Will
In order for a will to be valid in Wisconsin, it needs to meet several requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years old and have the mental capacity to create a will
- The will must be in writing
- You must sign or acknowledge the will in front of two witnesses
- Two witnesses must also sign, and they shouldn’t be beneficiaries
Some people choose to create a self-proving will to streamline the probate process. We’ll explain what that means and whether it makes sense for you.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even small oversights in a will can lead to confusion or conflict down the line. Here are some of the common issues we help clients avoid:
- Not updating the will after significant life events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child
- Naming someone who can’t or shouldn’t serve as personal representative
- Leaving vague instructions that are open to interpretation
- Assuming certain assets will pass through the will when they may not (like retirement accounts or life insurance)
We’re here to help you avoid these pitfalls and create a plan that stands the test of time.
How We Can Help You Draft a Will That Works
At Borakove Osman LLC, we know that no two families—or estates—are the same. We take the time to understand your goals, relationships, and priorities, and then we tailor your will to match.
Here’s how we help:
- We make the process approachable and straightforward
- We ensure your will meets all Wisconsin legal requirements
- We account for unique family dynamics, such as blended families or unmarried partners
- We coordinate your will with other estate planning tools when needed
We’ll answer your questions and explain your options in plain English, so you can make decisions with confidence.
Update Your Will as Life Changes
Life happens—and when it does, your will may need a second look. Whether you’ve welcomed a new child, lost a loved one, or simply changed your mind about something, we’re here to help you keep your documents current.
Regular reviews can go a long way toward preventing confusion or disputes down the line.
Contact Our Experienced Madison & Dane County Last Will and Testament Attorneys
Writing a will doesn’t need to be overwhelming. It’s an act of care for your family and your future. At Borakove Osman LLC, we’ll help you take this important step with clarity and confidence. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation with a Wisconsin estate planning attorney who will take the time to get it right.
Borakove Osman LLC is your trusted partner for estate planning for young families in Wisconsin. Serving all of Wisconsin, including Madison and Dane County, we are dedicated to providing high-quality legal advice and representation to help you secure your family’s future.