Contrary to what you read in novels or see in movies, there is no formal reading of a will. Typically, an individual’s original Last Will and Testament will be among their personal papers or in a fire safety box or bank safe deposit box; so it is the family members who discover and read the will. They will then know who the beneficiaries are and the named executor prior to contacting an attorney.
In some instances, a person may request that the attorney who drafted their will maintain the original in their office. At Evashavik Law, LLC, we have a fireproof safe in which we can keep your original will for no additional charge. In cases like this, the attorney would be notified of the individual’s death by family members, at which point the attorney will notify the named executor so that they may arrange to come in for an appointment and appear in front of the Register of Wills to be formally sworn in. Once the Executor/Executrix is sworn in the attorney will notify all beneficiaries of their potential interest in the estate by a form notice and letter.
If you have questions about where to keep an original will or if you would like us to keep your will in our secure safe, please contact us.
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