Last Will & Testaments

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Favour & Wilhelmsen, PLLC has been an integral part of the Prescott area legal community for over 45 years. You can expect exceptional legal representation from the initial consultation through the resolution of every matter.

Wills Attorney in Prescott, Arizona

Planning ahead is one of the most caring and practical steps you can take for your loved ones. A well-crafted will ensures that your wishes are clear, legally enforceable, and followed after you’re gone. At Favour & Wilhelmsen, PLLC, attorney David K. Wilhelmsen has been guiding clients in Prescott, Yavapai County, and Northern Arizona through the will-creation process since 1981. With over four decades of experience, he offers practical advice and personalized solutions that bring peace of mind.

Why a Will is Essential

Without a will, your estate will be distributed under Arizona’s “intestacy” laws, which may not reflect your wishes. Having a legally valid will allows you to:

Direct who will inherit your property and assets.
Name guardians for minor children.
Appoint a personal representative (executor) you trust.
Support charities or causes you care about.
Minimize family disputes and streamline the probate process.

Arizona Requirements for a Valid Will

Arizona follows the Arizona Revised Statutes Title 14 (Probate Code). To be valid, your will generally must:

Be made by a person at least 18 years old and of sound mind.
Be in writing (typed or handwritten).
Be signed by you (or by someone at your direction).
Be witnessed by at least two people, who sign in your presence.
Optionally include a self-proving affidavit to speed up probate.

Note: This is general information – not legal advice. Requirements may vary depending on your situation.

Common Challenges People Face

Many people delay making a will or rely on one-size-fits-all templates because they:

Unfortunately, unclear or outdated wills often lead to disputes, delays, and additional expense in probate court.

Myth-Busting: Common Misconceptions About Wills

“I don’t have enough assets to need a will.”

Even modest estates benefit from a clear plan — it helps your family avoid confusion.

“Everything automatically goes to my spouse.”

Not necessarily. Arizona’s intestacy laws may divide assets among children and other relatives.

“I can just handwrite my wishes on paper.”

Handwritten (holographic) wills are legal in Arizona, but must meet specific standards and are more likely to be challenged.

“I can just tell my family what I want instead of writing a will.”

Verbal promises aren’t legally binding. Without a written, properly executed will, your estate will be distributed according to Arizona’s intestacy laws — not your spoken wishes.

“Once I make a will, I never need to change it.”

A will should be reviewed and updated after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of children or grandchildren, or purchasing new property. Outdated wills often cause confusion or disputes in probate.

How David K. Wilhelmsen Can Help

Personalized Planning

David talks with you and discusses your family, assets, and goals.

Custom Drafting

Your will is prepared to meet Arizona’s legal requirements and reflect your wishes.

Integrated Estate Planning

Wills are often combined with trusts, powers of attorney, and advance directives to create a complete plan.

Ongoing Support

Life changes and your will should too. David advises when and how to update your will to keep it current.

FAQ: Last Will & Testaments in Arizona

Do wills need to be notarized in Arizona?

No, but having a self-proving affidavit (signed and notarized) speeds up probate because witnesses don’t need to possibly testify.

How often should I review my will?

Every 3–5 years, or after major life events like marriage, divorce, births, deaths, or acquiring new property.

Can I disinherit someone in Arizona?

Yes, but it must be done explicitly in your will to prevent them from inheriting under intestacy laws.

What happens if someone contests my will?

A contested will goes before the probate court. Working with an experienced attorney reduces the likelihood of challenges by ensuring the document is clear and legally sound.

Advanced Certification

David K. Wilhelmsen received his certification as a Real Estate Law Specialist from the Arizona Board of Legal Specialization of the Arizona State Bar in 1991 for demonstrating advanced knowledge, skill and understanding in the practice of real estate law.

Experience

We have over 45 years of practice experience in most areas of Real Estate, Estate Planning and Probate, and Small Business law.

Local Practice

Established in 1947, David K. Wilhelmsen joined the firm in 1981 and has practiced continuously since then in the Prescott and surrounding communities.

High Martindale-Hubbell Rating

We hold AV Preeminent® rating by Martindale-Hubbell, which is given to attorneys who are ranked at the highest level of professional excellence for their legal expertise, communication skills, and ethical standards by their peers.

Responsible Solutions

We provide trusted and straight forward legal solutions to most matters you may encounter.

Benefits

Why Choose Us?

Employing Favour & Wilhelmsen, PLLC will ensure that your rights are protected, your obligations are clearly understood, and your interests are strategically represented. Whether navigating a complex transaction, resolving a dispute, or mitigating legal risk, we provide the knowledge and advocacy needed to avoid costly mistakes and strive to achieve favorable outcomes.

Protect Your Legacy with a Prescott Last Will & Testament Attorney

Your will is more than a legal document — it’s a plan that protects your family and your legacy. With over 40 years of experience in Arizona estate planning, David K. Wilhelmsen will guide you through the process with clarity and care. Don’t leave your future to chance — make sure your wishes are honored.

Contact our Prescott, Arizona law office today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your financial future and your family’s legacy.