What is the primary purpose of a last will and testament?

The primary purpose of a last will and testament is to dispose of property after one's death. This legal document outlines how an individual's assets and liabilities will be managed and distributed among heirs, beneficiaries, and other parties according to their wishes. It allows the person to specify who will inherit their belongings, such as real estate, savings, personal items, and other forms of property, providing clarity and direction for the administration of their estate. By doing so, a will helps to prevent disputes among family members and ensures that the deceased's wishes are honored.

In contrast, a last will and testament does not focus on appointing medical guardians, providing living arrangements for family members, or designating a power of attorney—these functions are covered under different legal instruments. For instance, medical guardianship relates to healthcare decisions that are addressed in documents like a healthcare proxy, while power of attorney pertains to financial and legal decision-making, typically established through a power of attorney document, rather than a will.