A Last Will and Testament is a legal document, witnessed by two disinterested persons, which governs distribution of your property upon your death.  A Will has no effect until you die.  It can be revoked or changed at any time, provided that you have the requisite mental capacity.

In your Will, you appoint a personal representative, also known as an ‘executor’, to administer your estate after your death.  Duties of the executor include paying medical expenses related to your last illness and funeral, paying off creditors’ claims (if any), and distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries you name in your Will.  Your Will can also contain a Testamentary Trust to provide for the needs of a disabled spouse, parent, or child.  Such a provision may enable them to qualify for or retain public benefits, and can ensure that their inheritances are managed by responsible persons on their behalf. A Testamentary Trust does not take effect until after your death.

Do not attempt to create or change a Will by yourself as this may invalidate it. Be sure to consult a lawyer if you wish to create or update your Will.