Four Reasons Why Young Adults In Massachusetts Should Have A Will
As a young person, there is a reasonably good chance that you do not have a will. The data shows that only around 1 in 5 adults under the age of 35 have a will in place (Gallup). That is a mistake. All adults should have a will. At Fisher Law LLC, we believe in proactive estate planning. Here, our Norwood estate planning attorney highlights four reasons why young adults in Massachusetts should have a will.
1. You Control Who Inherits Your Property
Without a will, Massachusetts intestacy law decides who receives your property. That process follows strict statutory rules. It does not account for modern relationships, long-term partners, or personal priorities. A will lets you name beneficiaries directly. You decide who receives your savings, personal property, digital assets, or future interests. Even modest estates benefit from clarity. Young adults often assume they have nothing of value. That assumption fails once you add bank accounts, vehicles, retirement plans, or business interests.
2. You Choose Who Handles Your Estate
A will allows you to name a personal representative. That person manages your estate, pays debts, files tax returns, and distributes assets. Without a will, the court appoints someone. That choice may not match your preference. Administration takes time and judgment. Selecting someone you trust matters. For young adults, this often means choosing a parent, sibling, or trusted friend. The role carries responsibility. A will is the best option.
3. You Protect Yourself if You Become Incapacitated
Estate planning is not only about death. Quite the contrary, it is also preparing for the risk of the capacity. While a will controls what happens after death, planning often happens alongside documents that protect you during life. Incapacity can come from injury, illness, or sudden medical events. Without a proper plan in place, a Massachusetts court may need to appoint a guardian or conservator to manage your affairs. That process takes time and removes your control. Young adults often overlook this risk. You need to be prepared no matter what tomorrow brings.
4. You Reduce Stress for the People You Leave Behind
No person wants to leave their family and other loved ones stressed out, confused, and/or overwhelmed during an already difficult time. Death creates confusion. Legal confusion makes it worse. A will provides direction at a time when clarity matters. It reduces disputes among family members. It shortens court involvement. It answers basic questions before they turn into conflicts. For young adults, estate planning often feels premature. In reality, it is responsible. Accidents happen. Illness happens. You need to be prepared for those risks.
Call Our Massachusetts Estate Planning Attorney Today
At Fisher Law LLC, our Massachusetts estate planning lawyers are standing by, ready to protect your rights and your interests. If you have any questions about writing a will as a young adult, please do not hesitate to contact us today to set up a completely confidential, no obligation initial consultation. We provide estate planning services in Norwood and throughout the region.
Source:
news.gallup.com/poll/351500/how-many-americans-have-will.aspx
