Let’s face it—no one loves thinking about what happens after we’re gone. But if you own property, have children, or simply want a say in how your affairs are handled, having a will isn’t just important—it’s essential.
At Almagno Law, we work with clients across Rhode Island to make estate planning simple, clear, and customized to their lives. Whether you’re starting from scratch or updating an old plan, here’s what you need to know about why a will matters—and what happens if you don’t have one.
What Is a Will, and What Does It Do?
A will is a legal document that outlines:
- How your assets should be distributed after your death
- Who will care for your minor children or dependents
- Who will manage your estate (called your executor)
- Any charitable contributions or special requests
It’s one part of broader trust and estate planning—but an incredibly important one.
Do You Need a Will If You Don’t Have a Lot of Money?
Yes. A common myth is that wills are only for the wealthy. In reality, if you have a bank account, a car, a home, or sentimental possessions—you have an estate. A will ensures those items go to the people you choose, not the people the court assigns.
Without a will, Rhode Island’s intestacy laws take over—and that often means decisions are made by a judge, not your family. Want a say in the process? A will gives you that control.
What Happens in Rhode Island If You Die Without a Will
Dying “intestate” means the court distributes your assets according to Rhode Island law—not your preferences. That can create unexpected outcomes, especially for:
- Unmarried partners
- Blended families
- Minor children
- Estranged relatives
In some cases, this leads to lengthy probate battles or assets going to someone you wouldn’t have chosen.
When Should You Create or Update Your Will?
It’s never too early to plan ahead. That said, it’s especially important if you:
If you already have a will, we recommend reviewing it every few years—or anytime your life changes significantly.
- Recently got married, divorced, or remarried
- Had a child or became a guardian
- Bought a home or property
- Experienced a significant change in assets or income
- Own a small business that needs succession planning (learn more)
Wills vs. Trusts: What’s the Difference?
A will goes into effect after death and must go through probate. A trust, on the other hand, can help you:
- Avoid probate
- Reduce estate taxes
- Protect privacy
- Set terms for long-term asset management
Our estate planning services cover both wills and trusts, and we’ll help you decide what combination is right for your goals.
What Else Should Be in Your Estate Plan?
A complete estate plan might also include:
- Healthcare directive (a.k.a. living will)
- Durable power of attorney
- Guardianship designations
- Beneficiary designations for insurance, IRAs, etc.
At Almagno Law, we make sure your plan covers all the bases—so your loved ones aren’t left guessing.
Why Work with a Rhode Island Estate Planning Attorney?
Estate planning isn’t one-size-fits-all. A DIY will might seem convenient, but small mistakes can lead to big consequences—like disputes, probate delays, or even invalid documents.
As experienced Rhode Island estate planning attorneys, we tailor every document to your unique situation and make sure your wishes are legally protected.
Want to hear how we’ve helped others? Browse our testimonials or check out real-life case results.
Let’s Make It Easy to Plan Ahead
Thinking about a will may feel overwhelming—but it’s one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give your loved ones. Our team at Almagno Law makes the process clear, compassionate, and completely confidential.
Have questions? Start with our FAQs, or contact us to schedule a consultation.
You can also explore more estate and legal tips on our blog—updated weekly to help you stay informed and protected.
Legal Disclaimer
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship. For personalized legal guidance, please contact Almagno Law directly to schedule a consultation with a qualified attorney.
