Writing a Temporary Last Will and Testament for Travel

Legal Beagle reports:

"If you are traveling and don't have the time to consult a lawyer, you can create your own last will and testament to ensure that your wishes are carried out should you pass away. State laws vary, but in most cases the courts will accept a do-it-yourself will, provided it is created properly. When you get home after your travels, you can then see a lawyer and make a new will, which will then be your new last will and testament, replacing the temporary will you made yourself...By law, the most recent will that you write is the one that will be used when you pass away, hence the name 'last will and testament.' The only thing that makes your temporary will temporary is your intention to replace it later. Most states allow handwritten wills, or fill-in-the-blank forms, to be used, provided they are written properly...A temporary will should...spell out who you would like to be in charge of your children [if any] if you both should die [if married]. It should tell where important papers are and where a primary bank account is and who should have access to those funds and documents should you pass away, named as the executor of your estate. The will must be signed and dated. In most states, two uninterested parties not named in the will must also sign and date it...In addition to a will, you may want to write a power of attorney to name someone to care for your children [if any] and manage your finances and property, and make medical decisions on your behalf, should you become incapacitated during your trip...You need to sign and date this document and have it witnessed and dated by two uninterested parties. If it's a medical power of attorney, the witnesses should also not be your doctor or anyone else involved in your healthcare...These last[-]minute documents should not be considered a permanent solution. A formal will and power of attorney is best when time permits. This is just a good option if you do not have the time to do them yet. To revoke a temporary will or power of attorney, you need only to create a new one with a more recent date. Destroying all copies of the documents will also revoke them."