Music legend’s death leaves questions about last will

JACKSON, Tenn. — The death of music legend Prince, who reportedly did not have a last will, has some asking when is the right time to put your last dying wishes on paper.

“A person should have a will anytime they have assets that are going to be transferred at the time of their death,” Jackson Attorney Will Bell said.

Bell said a last will could cost anywhere from $100 to a few thousand depending on the person’s property and type of documents filled out.

Jackson resident Clarence Williams said he made a will more than a decade ago. “I’ve been getting sick for the last few years, and I thought I better get something in order so there wouldn’t be no arguments,” he said.

Levern Robinson is on the opposite end. He said he trusts his five children will be responsible with his property when he dies. “I think they’ll break it up equally.”

Bell said it’s important to know the difference between a last will and a living will.

The living will is when “a person designates how they want certain health care decisions made and who they want to make those health care decisions,” he said.

Every will is confidential and requires the signature of two individual witnesses. Bell said he recommends clients keep the papers in a fire-proof safe at home or in a bank deposit box.