What is the primary function of a will?

The primary function of a will is to specify how an individual’s assets will be distributed after death. A will is a legal document that expresses a person's wishes regarding the distribution of their property and the care of any minor children upon their passing. It can designate beneficiaries to receive specific assets, outline the executor who will manage the estate, and provide directions for paying debts and taxes. This key purpose distinguishes a will from other legal instruments, as it directly addresses the distribution of assets and ensures that the deceased’s intentions are honored.

The concept of a living trust, mentioned in another option, is more about managing and controlling assets during a person's lifetime and can avoid the probate process upon death. Joint tenancy relates to property ownership shared between parties but does not address the comprehensive distribution wishes of an individual after death as a will does. Similarly, the management of a trust involves different considerations and is separate from how a will articulates posthumous asset distribution. Thus, the correct answer accurately captures the fundamental role of a will in estate planning.