Will question for you lawyers out there (or anybody else who knows)

[T. J.]

Since this board appears to be populated by about 75% lawyers sometimes, I figured this would be as good a place to ask as any.

I need a will.  What is the best way to go about getting one?  Do I need a lawyer?  Can I use one of those software applications I see out there (Quicken has one, for example) or is that a terrible idea?  If I do need a lawyer, what's the best way to find one?  How much should I expect to spend on this?

Thanks, and I'll hang up and listen.

[Andyzipp]

Yes, I too am interested in T.J. getting his estate in order.

It would make things much...cleaner.

[JimR]

Since this board appears to be populated by about 75% lawyers sometimes, I figured this would be as good a place to ask as any.

I need a will.  What is the best way to go about getting one?  Do I need a lawyer?  Can I use one of those software applications I see out there (Quicken has one, for example) or is that a terrible idea?  If I do need a lawyer, what's the best way to find one?  How much should I expect to spend on this?

Thanks, and I'll hang up and listen.

if you are in Texas, a completely handwritten will is legal. the cost depends on your circumstances and what you want done. if you are in Austin, call me. 495-6025 is my office number.

[T. J.]

if you are in Texas, a completely handwritten will is legal. the cost depends on your circumstances and what you want done. if you are in Austin, call me. 495-6025 is my office number.

Thanks.  No, I'm in the Houston area.

As far as "circumstances", I just need a will because I have a kid, assets (not Drayton-level, but I'm not broke either), and I just want to have everything in writing somewhere. 

[pravata]

try these sites to let you know what you're in for,

http://www.texasbar.com/Template.cfm?Section=pamphlets&CONTENTID=7614&TEMPLATE=/ContentManagement/ContentDisplay.cfm
http://www.texasprobate.com/faqs/faq_about_wills.htm

[Juli]

If it's just a standard will with or without kids, you can find a lawyer to do it for you pretty reasonably.  We got ours done a few years ago and our wills, with living trusts and medical directives cost $350 IIRC.  I am an attorney and looked at the software programs, but decided against it because they are not updated when the laws change.  With this being Texas (any old thing written on a scrap of toilet paper appears to do), it probably doesn't matter, but I wanted to be safe.

[ybbodeus]

Since this board appears to be populated by about 75% lawyers sometimes.....

Maybe a few of you could create a premium forum here, bill by the half-hour or something for counsel provided.

[JimR]

Maybe a few of you could create a premium forum here, bill by the half-hour or something for counsel provided.

aren't you funny? no.