Over the years, I have had the privilege to work with great people at all stages of the estate planning process. This includes people looking to create an estate plan, as well as those left behind when a loved one passes, and who must deal with the effects of whatever planning was (or was not) done.
Few of us know how we will handle the death of a parent, spouse or child. Those tender emotions, combined with the difficulties of dealing with an estate for which little or no planning was done, can create a volatile situation for families and loved ones.
I have also seen the results of an estate plan based on the advice of well-meaning neighbors and friends. This advice — although well intended — can also lead to disastrous results.
I understand why some are hesitant to meet with an attorney for advice. Few want to pay to receive advice without any idea of what they will be told, or what it will ultimately cost. However, estate planning should not be left to luck, or the advice of friends or family. An estate plan that properly protects you and your loved ones cannot be accomplished simply by filling out a form from the internet.
It is less difficult than you might think to obtain the information you need to make informed estate planning decisions. Here are a few questions that, if you know how to answer, will allow you to make the right decisions for your circumstances.
- What is my “estate”? (The answer is probably not what you think!)
- What happens if I or my loved one becomes incapacitated?
- From what or whom do I need to protect my estate?
- How do I protect my estate?
- How does a will or trust protect my estate?
- Do I need a trust? If so, why?
The answers to these questions need not be difficult, but it is important that they be correct. We offer a free, no obligation presentation to answer these exact questions. Space is limited, so sign up and learn the right answers for you and your family.
*Steve Wright is an Idaho licensed attorney. This column is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice, which requires a specific discussion of specific circumstances.
© 2025 Steven J Wright