Many people are unaware that California has resources to help people with drafting key estate planning documents for free. If you enjoy doing things “DIY”, then you may find the following information helpful.
California has statutory forms for wills, advanced health care directives and powers of attorney. By “statutory,” I mean that these forms are literally part of the law and if they are used exactly as written in the law, then they will be upheld when you need them.
For example, you can go to this link. And if you follow all the directions and handwrite each of the responses in the boxes provided, you can make your own valid will.
Similarly, this link (pdf) helps you draft a valid Power of Attorney.
The California Attorney General also offers a fillable Advance Health Care Directive. (pdf)
If you have any questions about these documents, contact Maranto Law and we can make sure you understand what these forms do and how to execute them properly.