A Last Will & Testament (your Will) is a letter to a judge asking him or her to abide by your wishes.  It names your beneficiaries – those who you desire to receive the assets you have accumulated throughout your life.  If designates a Personal Representative – the person you select to direct and manage your estate.  It includes the specifics of how your property will be distributed upon her death.  It instructs what happens with your financial accounts, real estate and personal property.  These instructions override the inheritance laws of the state.  It also allows you to designate the person or people who will care for your children should both parents pass away.  It is the instruction manual for your Personal Representative to follow in executing your desires; with your Will, they find your way of distributing your assets.