LIMITATIONS OF WILLS

A man has a right to dispose of his property by will or gift as he
chooses, but if he is married the law compels him to consider the
rights of another.

The husband cannot, by will or otherwise, deprive his wife of her
"right of dower" in his real estate and appurtenances.

Unless she chooses to accept, the wife need not accept other
property that is bequeathed her in lieu of dower.

The wife's dower interest in her husband's estate is a life
interest only. On her death it goes to the husband's heirs, as if
there had been no widow.

In some states there is no right of dower.

HOW TO MAKE A WILL

The will not only shows the purpose of the testator, but it serves
as a bar to litigation among the natural heirs.

Any man or woman can write out his or her will, but unless quite
familiar with such work it is better to employ a lawyer for the
purpose.

The person named in the will to carry out the purpose of the
testator is known as the "executor".