New Partnership Provides Free Legal Service to Lakers

Nearly 67 percent of American adults do not have a legal will in place. Thanks to SUNY Oswego’s new partnership with FreeWill, all Lakers can take advantage of this free online estate planning tool that guides you through the process of writing your legal will.

“It was very simple, very quick and very thorough,” said Melissa Semione, an academic planning coordinator in SUNY Oswego’s Division of Extended Learning. “I had it completed in 15 minutes and was printing out copies to get signatures and get it notarized. And it didn’t cost me a cent.”

She said the system walked her through all the decisions that needed to be made regarding her assets, including property, retirement accounts, life insurance and pets, as well as funeral arrangements, burial/final resting arrangements, health care proxy and living will decisions.

Completing this simple task, she said, is the least she could do to ensure peace of mind for herself and her loved ones.

“This is a labor of love for those you leave behind,” she said. “Having your wishes in writing relieves the worry, helps your loved ones avoid conflict and questions, and assists them in making the monumental decisions at a stressful time in their lives. I believe creating a will is one of the kindest, most loving things you can do for your family.”

Alex Dukat ’19 also took advantage of the free tool and said they found it empowering to finally be able to draft their will and establish their legacy.

“FreeWill made it incredibly simple to finally put pen to paper the wishes I’ve had in mind for years,” Dukat said.

After being diagnosed with a life-threatening autoimmune disorder in their 20s, Dukat said they likely have spent more time than most of their counterparts thinking about and planning for their death.

“Your will is just another safety-net that not only protects you, but ensures that your wishes are brought to fruition upon your passing, including the way you wish to have your beautiful life be celebrated,” Dukat said. “I think that’s special to have the control and decision over how I’m celebrated when I pass on, and how I leave my legacy.”

Although not required to use the tool, Semione and Dukat both decided to include SUNY Oswego in their estate plans.

In recognition of their commitment, they are now members of the Sheldon Legacy Society, an honor reserved for those individuals who make planned estate gifts.

Create your legal will today, or learn more about creating a legacy at SUNY Oswego..

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