Creating a will is an important step for any parent, especially when minor children are involved. A will ensures that your wishes are carried out regarding the guardianship of your children and the management of their inheritance. Below are three diverse examples of Will Forms designed for families with minor children. Each example is tailored to different circumstances and offers a practical approach to planning for the future.
This will form is ideal for parents who want to designate a guardian for their minor children in the event of their passing. It’s straightforward and focuses on the primary concern: who will care for your children.
In this example, John and Sarah want to ensure that their three children are cared for by their trusted friends, Mark and Lisa, should anything happen to them. They want to make their wishes clear and legally binding.
LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT
I, John Smith, and I, Sarah Smith, both residing at 123 Maple St., Anytown, State, hereby declare this to be our Last Will and Testament.
1. We appoint Mark Johnson and Lisa Johnson as guardians of our minor children: Emily (age 10), Noah (age 8), and Ava (age 5).
2. In the event that Mark and Lisa are unable or unwilling to serve, we appoint our brother, Michael Smith, as an alternate guardian.
3. We direct that all assets left to our children shall be managed by a trustee until they reach the age of 18.
Signed this 15th day of March, 2023.
_____________________
John Smith
_____________________
Sarah Smith
Witnessed by:
_____________________
Witness 1
_____________________
Witness 2
Notes: This example emphasizes clarity in guardianship choices. It’s crucial to communicate with potential guardians beforehand to ensure they are willing to take on this responsibility.
This will form incorporates a trust to manage assets for minor children. It’s suitable for parents who want to ensure that their children’s inheritance is protected until they reach a certain age.
In this case, Emily and Chris want to create a trust for their two children, Mia (age 12) and Ethan (age 9), to manage their financial assets until they are older.
LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT
I, Emily Brown, and I, Chris Brown, residing at 456 Oak Ave., Anycity, State, declare this to be our Last Will and Testament.
1. We appoint our sister, Rachel Brown, as the guardian of our children, Mia and Ethan.
2. We create a trust for the benefit of our children, funded by our life insurance and any assets we leave behind, to be managed by our appointed trustee, Andrew Green.
3. The trust shall be administered until both children reach the age of 21, at which point the remaining assets will be distributed to them.
Signed this 10th day of April, 2023.
_____________________
Emily Brown
_____________________
Chris Brown
Witnessed by:
_____________________
Witness 1
_____________________
Witness 2
Notes: A trust can help protect your children’s inheritance from being mismanaged or spent prematurely. Consider discussing the specifics of the trust with a financial advisor.
This will form includes specific bequests for minor children’s needs, such as education or health care. It’s perfect for parents who want to ensure funds are allocated for their children’s future necessities.
In this scenario, Lisa is a single mother who wants to make sure her son, Jake (age 7), is provided for in specific areas, particularly education and health care.
LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT
I, Lisa Green, residing at 789 Pine St., Anyplace, State, declare this to be my Last Will and Testament.
1. I appoint my sister, Clara Green, as the guardian of my son, Jake.
2. I bequeath $50,000 to be held in trust for Jake’s education, to be managed by my friend, Tom White, until he reaches 18.
3. I also direct that $20,000 be set aside for Jake’s health care needs, to be accessed by his guardian as required.
Signed this 20th day of May, 2023.
_____________________
Lisa Green
Witnessed by:
_____________________
Witness 1
_____________________
Witness 2
Notes: Specific bequests can provide peace of mind to parents, knowing that their children’s essential needs will be met. It’s wise to consult with an attorney to ensure these provisions are legally enforceable.
By creating a will that reflects your family’s unique needs, you can ensure that your children are cared for and that your wishes are honored. Remember, it’s advisable to consult a legal professional when drafting your will to ensure that it meets all legal requirements in your jurisdiction.