An Experienced Attorney For Creating Wills In Arkansas

Life is full of unexpected changes, but your legacy shouldn’t be one of them. While thinking about the future can feel overwhelming, having a clear plan in place is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family. At Tapp Law Firm, we help our neighbors in Hot Springs and throughout Arkansas create a last will and testament — a comprehensive legal document, often simply called a will, that provides clarity, protects assets and ensures your final wishes are honored.

Different Types Of Wills And How To Create Them In Arkansas

Arkansas law offers several ways to document your final wishes. Each path requires strict adherence to specific rules to be valid. To help you understand your options, we focus on the two primary types of wills that our state recognizes:

• Formal (witnessed) wills: You must sign these typed documents in the presence of at least two disinterested witnesses. Those witnesses must then sign the document in your presence and in the presence of each other to finalize the will. A “disinterested” witness is someone who does not stand to inherit anything under the will.
• Holographic wills: You must write and sign these documents entirely in your own handwriting. While you do not need witnesses at the time of signing, three credible people must later verify your handwriting in court for the will to be valid.

Estate planning attorney Tylar Tapp will guide you through these requirements to make sure your document stands up to legal scrutiny.

Establishing A Valid Will In Hot Springs

To create a valid will in Arkansas, you must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind. This means you understand the extent of your property and who your heirs are. The process begins with a careful inventory of your assets and a clear decision on who will serve as your executor to manage the estate’s affairs.

You must also declare the document as your will in the presence of witnesses to satisfy the state’s strict “testamentary intent” and execution requirements. Working through these steps with a professional ensures that your beneficiaries are protected and that the document is properly filed or stored to avoid complications during probate.

Need To Set Up A Will? Call Our Estate Planning Attorney Today

While online templates might seem convenient, they often lack the nuances of Arkansas law. A single error in witnessing or phrasing can leave your legacy at risk. By working with an experienced lawyer, you ensure your document is legally sound and tailored to your family’s unique needs. Call us at 501-623-9800 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule your free initial consultation.