Have you ever heard stories about families fighting over Grandma’s jewelry or getting tangled in lengthy legal battles after a loved one passes away? Or perhaps about the headaches of selling a house tied up in probate? Unfortunately, these situations are all too common – even among the rich and famous. But here’s the good news: these problems are often avoidable with the right planning.
Imagine estate planning like making lasagna. Your favorite lasagna recipe includes various components: ingredients, amounts, and steps to turn them into a delicious dish. Estate planning works the same way. A will or trust is like having just the pasta or sauce – they’re important ingredients, but they don’t make the meal on their own. Without a full recipe – a comprehensive estate plan – you’re missing out on the complete picture.
Why the State’s Recipe Might Not Suit You
If you don’t create your own estate plan, your state has one prepared for you. This plan may not fit your tastes or needs. For instance, imagine the state’s recipe for lasagna includes spicy sausage, but you’re not a fan of spice. Or perhaps it includes mushrooms, but someone in your family is allergic. The state’s default plan might involve lengthy court processes, potential conflicts, and even delay asset distribution – like waiting months to enjoy your meal.
Creating your own estate plan means you get to decide exactly how you want things to be handled. You can choose who inherits your assets, set up trusts to protect your loved ones, and avoid the lengthy probate process. Think of it as customizing your lasagna recipe to fit your preferences and needs.
Choosing the Right Recipe
Creating an estate plan allows you to choose your “recipe” for handling your estate. Whether you want to include charitable donations, specific family members, or exclude certain ingredients, you have control. You can decide if you want to avoid the court process and how quickly your assets are distributed.
If you’re unsure about how to start or if your current plan needs updating, we’re here to help. We can guide you through creating a comprehensive estate plan that reflects your wishes and protects your loved ones. Don’t leave it to chance – ensure your plan is as well-prepared as your favorite lasagna recipe.
At Cheever Law, APC, we don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death for yourself and the people you love, starting with a valuable and educational Life & Legacy Planning Session. This will allow you to get more financially organized and make the best choices for the people you love. If you have already completed your estate plan, we will review that plan at your Life & Legacy Planning Session to ensure that it will work the way you intend and address any holes or gaps that may be present if circumstances have changed since you executed your plan.
To learn more about our one-of-a-kind systems and services, contact us or schedule a no-obligation 15-minute introductory phone call today.