Free AI help for wills, trusts & estate law

Yes, using our AI legal assistant is completely free of charge. You can ask questions, receive information, and explore your options without any costs whatsoever. There are no hidden charges, subscription fees, or obligations. We believe in making estate planning information more accessible, particularly when you're beginning to navigate these important legal matters.

Our AI assistant provides information based on publicly available US estate planning and probate law and is regularly updated to reflect current federal legislation and general legal principles. However, estate planning laws vary significantly by state, and every situation has unique aspects that may affect how legal principles apply. While the information is designed to be helpful and informative, it cannot account for every detail of complex situations or specific state requirements. For definitive guidance on your specific circumstances, a qualified attorney can provide personalized advice.

Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person's will is validated and their estate is administered under court supervision. In the US, probate procedures vary by state, but generally involve filing the will with the probate court, appointing an executor or personal representative, inventorying assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries. Not all estates require probate - it depends on the value and types of assets involved, and some states have simplified procedures for smaller estates. Our AI assistant can help you understand whether probate might be needed in your situation.

Yes, you can write a will without an attorney, and it can be legally valid if it meets your state's requirements. Most states require the will to be in writing, signed by you, and witnessed by two independent witnesses (though some states recognize handwritten or "holographic" wills). However, for complex estates, blended families, or significant assets, professional legal advice is often recommended to ensure your will is valid and achieves your objectives while minimizing potential tax consequences.

When someone dies without a valid will (called dying "intestate"), their estate is distributed according to intestacy laws set by their state. These laws determine who inherits and in what order - typically surviving spouses, children, parents, and other relatives in a specific hierarchy that varies by state. The court will appoint an administrator (usually the closest relative) to handle the estate. Our AI guide can explain general intestacy principles, though specific rules vary significantly by state.

Many states offer both formal and informal probate procedures. Informal probate (sometimes called "unsupervised" probate) is a simpler, faster process for uncontested estates where all parties agree. Formal probate involves more court supervision and is required when there are disputes, complex assets, or other complications. Some states also offer small estate procedures that bypass probate entirely for estates below certain dollar thresholds.

Yes, wills can be contested in the US on several grounds including lack of mental capacity when the will was made, undue influence, fraud, duress, or improper execution. The specific procedures and time limits for contesting a will vary by state. Surviving spouses may also have rights to claim a portion of the estate even if omitted from the will, depending on state law. However, will contests can be complex, time-consuming, and costly, so it's important to understand the legal grounds and prospects of success before proceeding.

Our AI assistant can help you identify situations where speaking to an attorney may be beneficial. While it's not a substitute for legal advice, it can guide you through common questions and help you understand when professional support might be the right next step. In general, we recommend consulting an attorney for more complex matters such as estate tax planning, setting up trusts, contested probate, estates involving business interests, or if you're unsure about your state's specific legal requirements. Simple wills and straightforward probate matters might not require professional help, but attorneys can provide peace of mind and ensure everything is handled correctly according to your state's laws.