Most people delay estate planning because it feels premature or uncomfortable. In practice, that delay often leaves families exposed at the worst possible time. A Last Will & Testament is not only for the elderly or wealthy. It is a basic legal document that every adult should have, even if the estate is modest and the family situation seems straightforward.
A will allows you to state, in writing, how your property should be distributed, who should handle your affairs, and—if applicable—who should care for your minor children. Without a will, Utah’s intestacy statutes control those decisions. That means the law decides, not you. In many cases, that result is inconsistent with what the person would have wanted and creates unnecessary conflict, delay, and expense for surviving family members.
Unforeseen events are exactly that—unforeseen. Accidents, sudden illness, or unexpected death do not wait until life feels “settled.” A simple will at least provides clarity and direction when emotions are high and time matters. It can prevent disputes among family members, reduce court involvement, and make an already difficult situation more manageable.
Rifleman Law & Mediation offers a FREE Simple Last Will & Testament that can be completed online. This form is designed to give people a basic, legally meaningful document so they are not left with nothing in place. You can access the free will here:
https://forms.gle/8tTv2uFqvHRZaNKZA
This free will is not intended to replace comprehensive estate planning. Rather, it is a starting point—a safety net. We strongly recommend that anyone with assets, children, blended families, business interests, or tax considerations review their estate plan with a competent attorney. A full estate plan may include powers of attorney, advance health care directives, trusts, beneficiary coordination, and tax planning that a simple will cannot address.
There are common life events that should immediately trigger estate planning or at least the execution of a basic will. Turning 18 is one of them; once you are a legal adult, your parents no longer have automatic authority to act for you. Marriage is another, as it changes property rights and inheritance expectations. The birth or adoption of children makes planning critical, particularly for naming guardians. Divorce or widowhood almost always requires updates to prior documents. Changes in health, diagnosis of a serious condition, or significant changes in assets or debt should also prompt review.
Estate planning is not about pessimism. It is about responsibility and control. Having a will is one of the simplest ways to protect the people you care about and reduce uncertainty when it matters most.
If you have no will, start with the free simple will. Then, when you are ready, speak with an attorney about whether a more comprehensive estate plan is appropriate for your circumstances. Rifleman Law & Mediation is available to help you do both.