When many people think about estate planning, they imagine a simple will and some papers put away for the future. It does not appear urgent until it suddenly is. And then, the absence of detail and unclear instructions can lead to stress, confusion and even conflict for the loved ones left behind.
With all the do-it-yourself tools and internet templates available, it’s easy to consider doing it on your own. These templates may seem handy if you’re in a rush to save time or money. However, what they often lack is the legal accuracy and personal touch that a decent estate plan needs. It is not simple an issue of having the documents but to make sure they effectively do what you need and want them to do.
Every family is different. Some have minor children and need to name a guardian while others are taking care of their elderly parents, running a business, managing a blended family, or trying to protect a loved one with special needs. These kinds of goals don’t lend themselves to a fill-in-the-blank form.
That is where an estate planning attorney comes in. A good attorney will get you to think about things that might not have occurred to you. They will go over your choices clearly and help create a plan that reflects your values, your priorities, and your relationships. They will also ensure your documents meet all the legal requirements in your state and are correctly executed, witnessed and stored.
Life doesn’t stand still, and neither should your estate plan. Marriage, divorce, the birth of children or grandchildren, buying a home or starting a business – these major life events all impact your plan. An attorney can help you keep things updated over the years so that your wishes continue to align with your current situation.
If there is ever a dispute or misunderstanding down the line, a plan drafted professionally carries significant weight. Courts take more seriously properly written documents prepared by attorneys. It will spare your loved one’s probate hassle and reduce the potential for disagreement or delay.
Estate planning is not just about preparing for the end of your life. It is about making purposeful decisions that protect your future and the people who matter most in your life. And what it comes to something that important, it’s worth doing it right.
