Do Lawyers Keep Original Copies Of Wills?

Introduction

When it comes to estate planning, creating a will is an important step in ensuring that your wishes are carried out after your passing. However, many people are unsure about who should keep the original copy of their will. One common question is whether lawyers keep original copies of wills. In this article, we’ll explore this question and provide some insights into where you should keep your will.

What is a Will?

A will is a legal document that outlines how you want your assets distributed after your death. It can also include instructions on who should take care of any dependents you may have, such as children or pets. Creating a will is an important part of estate planning, as it helps to ensure that your wishes are followed.

Do Lawyers Keep Original Copies of Wills?

Many people assume that their lawyer will keep the original copy of their will. However, this is not always the case. While some lawyers may offer to keep the original copy of your will in their office, it is not a requirement for them to do so. In fact, some lawyers may charge a fee for storing your original will.

Why Don’t Lawyers Always Keep Original Copies of Wills?

There are several reasons why a lawyer may not keep the original copy of your will. First, they may not have the space to store it. Second, they may not want to be held responsible for the safekeeping of your will. Finally, they may not want to be responsible for ensuring that your original will is found after your passing.

Where Should You Keep Your Will?

If your lawyer is not keeping the original copy of your will, where should you keep it? There are several options:

1. Keep it at Home

One option is to keep the original copy of your will at home. This can be a safe option if you have a fireproof safe or a secure location to store it. However, it’s important to ensure that your loved ones know where to find your will after your passing.

2. Store it in a Safe Deposit Box

Another option is to store the original copy of your will in a safe deposit box. This can be a secure option, but it’s important to ensure that your loved ones have access to the box after your passing.

3. Use an Online Storage Service

Finally, you can use an online storage service to keep a digital copy of your will. This can be a convenient option, as you can access your will from anywhere with an internet connection. However, it’s important to ensure that the service you use is secure and that your loved ones know how to access your will after your passing.

Conclusion

In summary, lawyers do not always keep original copies of wills. If your lawyer is not keeping the original copy of your will, you can keep it at home, store it in a safe deposit box, or use an online storage service. Regardless of where you keep your will, it’s important to ensure that your loved ones know where to find it after your passing. By taking the time to create a will and ensuring that it is stored safely, you can help to ensure that your wishes are carried out after your passing.