Where should you keep your legal documents is a tough question because it varies with the party and the document.  However, I will break it down some.

Warranty Deed:  Keep with the file you were given at closing.  Your house is a fine place.  Safety deposit box is very secure, but close to being over the top.  In fact, in Georgia your warranty deed can easily be found on-line.

Will:  Your original should either stay with your attorney or be put in a secure location.  Important Note: Your executor/executrix must be able to find it or it is of no value.  Always tell them were you are keeping the original.  Generally, no one needs to know the contents of the will, just where it is.

Trust:  Same as will, but trustee should know all of their responsibilities so they will get a copy of it. 

Living Will: Your doctor should have a copy.  Your health care agent should have a copy.  You should have a copy.  Your lawyer should have a copy.  Also, our law firm can keep a copy secured on-line so your health care agent or family can contact us and get a copy of it when it is necessary.

 One last overall point.  If no one know where you put something, they may not be able to find it when it is needed.  A forgotten bank account stinks.  Not locating your living will in an emergency stinks. Always request your estate lawyer to help prepare a general checklist and location list of all your legal documents and person possessions.

By JP McClelland, Esq.

http://www.jpmclaw.com/

georgialawblog.jpmclaw.com

Georgia Wills and Trusts Law Firm 

Georgia LLC Formation Law Firm