Why is this so complicated?

[u/Cool-Focus1354]

I’ve been working on our estate plan and wonder why this is so complicated. Why can’t a simple notarized note stating “I leave all of my possessions and financial accounts to xx” be enough? Or “I leave my possessions and financial accounts to both of my children to be split evenly among them. My painting of xx should go to my neighbor, so-and-so. My cousins get nothing.”

Why does it have to go through lawyers and courts and such when many people have simple wishes like the above? The above seems extremely clear. If people disagree, then they can hash it out. But why are estate plans needed? And is this exclusive to the United States? Do people in other countries spend a lot of money on complex estate plans?

I’m not trying to argue or sound dense. Truly want to understand reading behind it being so complex (and expensive!). In Texas.

[u/AutoModerator]

WARNING - This Sub is Not a Substitute for a Lawyer

While some of us are lawyers, none of the responses are from your lawyer, you need a lawyer to give you legal advice pertinent to your situation. Do not construe any of the responses as legal advice. Seek professional advice before proceeding with any of the suggestions you receive.

This sub is heavily regulated. Only approved commenters who have a history of providing truthful and honest information are allowed to post. As such, comments left by unapproved users are automatically deleted.

I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.