Most people know they should draft a will, but many people also delay the process of creating one. The reality is, people of all ages should have a will. If you own any property or assets, it is a good idea to legally protect them.

Even if you already have a will, it is very important to update it throughout your life. It allows you total control over your assets and important aspects of your future, including:

• How your assets will be distributed when you pass away
• Who will make decisions for you if you become incapacitated
• Who will care for your minor kids if you pass away or are incapacitated
• Who will act as your executor and help to resolve your estate

If you pass away without a will, you cannot control how the estate is distributed. The entirety of your assets will not automatically go to your spouse. Your spouse will receive a third of the estate at a minimum. If you have one child, your spouse and child would each receive half. If you have two children, your spouse and the two children would each receive a third of the estate.

Georgia has laws about all of these aspects of your estate if you fail to leave a legally enforceable will behind. Your wishes will not be recognized if they are not stated in a will, and it will be much more difficult and expensive for your loved ones during the probate process.