Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Missouri

can a notarized letter temporarly substitute a will

We have no will, can a notarized letter indicating who we want to care for our children and who to manage their financial wellbeing replace a will? We are leaving on a trip and want to have something in place incase something should happens. A will is not financially possible at this time. Would the notarized letter hold up in court ? and is the letter better than nothing or not even worth the trouble ?


Asked on 1/16/02, 8:17 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael R. Nack Michael R. Nack, Attorney at Law

Re: can a notarized letter temporarly substitute a will

A letter such as you suggest would only serve to express your wishes, and would not be legally binding. Simple wills, providing for the distribution of your assets upon death, naming guardians for any children who would be minors at the time of your death, and setting up a trust for the management of the money until the children are old enough to take it should not be overly expensive. If you do not already have an attorney you may call me for a free telephone consultation at 314-727-2822.

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Answered on 1/16/02, 8:59 pm


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