Should I Have More Than One Original Last Will and Testament in New York?

Some clients have asked whether it is a good idea to have more than one original will. What they are asking is, if upon execution of the will, if they should execute two or three original copies for safekeeping. This may sound like a good idea to some of us who tend to misplace things, however, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of having more than one original Last Will & Testament.

One advantage to having more than one original copy of a Last Will & Testament is that if anything should happen to the original will in your possession or if the Executor cannot find your Last Will & Testament in your home after your death, there is another one out there for the Executor to get his hands on, either with the attorney who drafted your will or with a friend. On the other side, however, is a disadvantage. If you have more than one original, and you decide to make changes or revoke it and make up another will entirely, there is more work to be done. You would have to get your hands on all the originals and make changes to each of them or destroy them each, in order to avoid confusion after your death. Those who have more than one original will, may at some point revoke or make changes to their will, and forget about doing the same to the other original, which would cause problems later on if the later will is lost or not probated.

Whether to have one or more originals of your Last Will & Testament is a very important decision which you should consult with an experienced estate attorney on. If you need assistance with your Last Will & Testament in New York, contact the Law Offices of Albert Goodwin at (212) 233-1233.