Wills Attorney
Wills Attorney
Create a Clear Plan. Reduce Future Stress.
A legally sound will is one of the most important documents you can create for your family. At Eleff Law, we help clients across Bethesda, Silver Spring, and Frederick as well as DC, northern Virginia and the surrounding areas prepare wills that reflect their wishes, honor their values, and make things easier for their loved ones—without uncertainty or delays.
Why You Need a Will
Without a valid will, local law determines how your assets are divided—and who gets to manage the process. That can lead to unwanted outcomes, delays in distribution, and even disputes among family members.
A properly drafted will allows you to:
Decide who inherits your property
Name a personal representative (executor) to handle your estate
Appoint a guardian for minor children
Make charitable gifts or support non-family beneficiaries
Provide specific instructions on funeral or burial preferences
Whether your estate is modest or complex, a will ensures your intentions are known—and followed.
Wills for Every Stage of Life
We work with individuals and families in all stages of planning:
- Young parents creating wills to name guardians
- Older adults revisiting outdated documents
- Couples with blended families who need clarity
- High-net-worth individuals balancing wills with trusts
- Maryland, DC and Virginia residents seeking state-specific compliance
What’s Included in a Will Package
Every client receives a tailored set of documents that may include:
Last Will and Testament
Legal document that outlines your wishes for asset distribution, guardianship, and final arrangements on death
Power of Attorney
Legal document effective during your lifetime that names an agent, or succession of agents to sub for you in the event of incapacity, or if you wish, for your convenience.
Advance Medical Directive with HIPAA Authorization
Allows you to share decision making with one or more designees of your choice, and allows those representatives to access medical information as needed.
How Our Process Works
We Start With a Conversation
We listen to your goals, family structure, and any concerns you may have, typically a free initial consultation.
Engagement
If you decide we are the “right fit” for you, you make some initial decisions as to the type of estate plan you prefer and sign an engagement letter.
We Draft with Clarity
Your will is carefully written in plain English, with minimal boilerplate or confusing legal language.
You Review and Approve
You review initial drafts, let us know of any modiciations or clarifications needed, and ask any and all questions so you feel confident signing.
We Keep It Flexible
Life changes. We’re here for updates and questions down the road.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Wills in Maryland, DC and Virginia
Can I name guardians for my minor children in my will?
Yes—and if you have children under 18, this may be the most important reason to create a will. In Maryland, DC and Virginia the designation of a guardian in a will gives the court clear guidance about whom you trust to raise your children if you’re no longer able. While the court retains final authority, judges give strong weight to the wishes expressed in your will. You can also nominate alternate guardians in case your first choice is unavailable. At Eleff Law, we guide clients through the emotional and practical aspects of naming a guardian, helping ensure stability and care for your children.
What happens if I die without a will while domiciled in Maryland, DC or Virginia?
Dying without a will—called dying “intestate”—means that your estate will be distributed according to local intestacy statutes. These default rules don’t take your personal relationships, family dynamics, or preferences into account. For example:
- If you're married with minor children, your spouse may not automatically receive your entire estate.
- Unmarried partners, stepchildren, and close friends may receive nothing, even if you intended to provide for them.
- The court will appoint someone to administer your estate and may select a guardian for minor children without your input.
Creating a will gives you—not the state—control over these critical decisions and can prevent unnecessary stress or disputes among your loved ones.
How does a will differ from a trust, and do I need both?
A will is a legal document that only takes effect upon your death. It names beneficiaries, appoints a personal representative (executor), and outlines guardianship for minor children. However, it typically goes through probate, a process that can take time and become public record.
A trust can take effect during your lifetime or after your death, and can help your estate avoid probate altogether. Trusts offer privacy, faster distribution of assets, and added control over how and when beneficiaries receive their inheritance.
Many clients use both:
- A revocable living trust to manage and distribute key assets
- A pour-over will to capture anything not titled in the trust
At Eleff Law, we assess your specific goals and help you decide whether a will, a trust, or a combination of both is best for your situation.
Plan Now—Not Later
A will is more than a legal document—it’s peace of mind for the people you love. Let’s make sure your wishes are clearly known and legally protected.
Offices in Silver Spring and Bethesda
Serving clients throughout Montgomery County,Frederick County, Howard County, Maryland, the District of Columbia and northern Virginia.
Schedule your will consultation with Attorney Susan Eleff by calling our office or filling out our online contact form. A free initial consultation of up to 15 minutes is available.