Greensboro Will Amendment Lawyer

Let Our Firm Help You Update Your Will

When life changes, your estate plan should change with it. At Law Offices of Cheryl David, our dedicated legal team understands that your will is one of the most important documents you will ever create. However, a will is not a “set it and forget it” document—it should evolve with your circumstances, relationships, and financial goals. If you are considering changing your will, our experienced Greensboro will amendment attorney can help ensure your revisions are legally valid and reflect your current wishes.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a skilled Greensboro will amendment attorney and take the next step in securing your future.

Common Reasons to Amend a Will

Over time, many individuals find that the terms of their will no longer fit their circumstances. Here are some of the most common reasons our clients in Greensboro choose to amend their wills:

• Marriage or Divorce – A change in marital status often means a need to add or remove a spouse as a beneficiary or executor.
• Birth or Adoption of Children or Grandchildren – You may want to include new heirs in your estate plan.
• Death of a Beneficiary or Executor – If someone named in your will passes away, adjustments are needed to ensure your estate is distributed properly.
• Changes in Financial Situation – A significant increase or decrease in assets may require a restructuring of your estate distribution.
• Acquisition or Sale of Property – If you purchase or sell real estate, businesses, or other valuable assets, your will should be updated accordingly.
• Relocation to Another State – Estate laws vary from state to state, so moving to North Carolina or out of state may necessitate amendments.
• Changes in Relationships – You may wish to add or remove beneficiaries or adjust inheritances based on evolving family dynamics.
• Tax Planning Considerations – Updates may be needed to reduce potential estate taxes and preserve wealth for your heirs.

Life is unpredictable, but keeping your will current ensures your wishes are honored and prevents unnecessary disputes.

The Legal Process of Will Amendment in North Carolina

If you live in Greensboro, amending your will must comply with North Carolina law to be legally valid. Working with a skilled Greensboro will amendment lawyer helps ensure your changes are properly executed.

There are two main ways to amend a will:

Codicil to a Will

A codicil is a separate legal document that modifies, adds to, or revokes specific provisions in your existing will. It must be signed and witnessed with the same legal formalities as the original will. Codicils are best for minor updates, such as changing an executor or adding a small bequest.

Drafting a New Will

For major changes, drafting an entirely new will is often the safest and most efficient choice. The new document revokes the old one and replaces it with updated terms that clearly reflect your wishes.

Legal Requirements in North Carolina

To be valid, a will amendment in North Carolina generally requires:

• The testator (person creating the will) to be at least 18 years old and of sound mind.
• The amendment or new will to be in writing.
• Proper signatures by the testator.
• Attestation by at least two competent witnesses.

Because mistakes in execution can make a will or codicil invalid, working with a knowledgeable attorney ensures your documents hold up in court.

Will Amendment FAQs

How often should I review my will?

It is generally recommended to review your will every three to five years or after any major life event such as marriage, divorce, a new child, or significant financial changes.

Can I handwrite changes on my will?

No. Simply writing on your will is not legally valid in most cases. Amendments must follow North Carolina’s formal legal requirements. A codicil or new will is the correct method.

Is a codicil cheaper than making a new will?

In some cases, yes. However, codicils can complicate matters if you make multiple amendments over time. Drafting a new will is often more straightforward for significant updates.

Do I need an attorney to amend my will?

While it is possible to attempt a DIY amendment, errors are common and can invalidate your changes. Working with an attorney ensures your amendments are legally binding.

What happens if I don’t update my will?

If your will does not reflect your current wishes, your estate may be distributed in ways you no longer intend. This can lead to disputes among heirs, higher taxes, or unintended beneficiaries receiving assets.

Contact a Greensboro Will Amendment Attorney Today

Keeping your will up to date is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your legacy and your loved ones. At Law Offices of Cheryl David, we provide trusted legal guidance for individuals and families in Greensboro and throughout North Carolina. Whether you need a simple codicil or a complete rewrite of your will, our team is here to ensure your estate plan is current, clear, and enforceable.

Reach out to our firm for a free consultation at (336) 717-0375.