Estate planning is an important step that everyone needs to take eventually. If you do not make plans of your own, the courts get to decide what happens to most of your assets. Even knowing this, many people still put off estate planning for a variety of reasons. Let’s take a look at why you should stop delaying and start talking with a Rockland County wills, trusts & estates attorney.
So Why Do Some People Put Off Estate Planning?
Having a plan for your assets after you pass away just seems like common sense, but people still make every excuse to put off estate planning. Some of these reasons for delaying action even seem like good ones. We are here to poke some holes in some myths and correct some of your misconceptions about estate planning. Here is why you should not delay for any of these reasons:
The cost: You do not want to spend the money to go to a lawyer and establish an estate plan. We understand that, but you need to think about the costs that your loved ones will have to contend with if you do not have a plan. If you pass away without an estate plan, the courts will have to decide what to do with your assets. This costs your loved ones court fees, attorney fees, and lots of time that they will not get back.
It is confusing: Developing an estate plan can seem difficult. That is why you talk to our experienced attorneys. We can explain everything to you and answer any questions.
You do not own enough: A common misconception is that estate planning is just for the rich. This is not the case. If you have absolutely any assets to pass down, even if they mostly have sentimental value, then making an estate plan is worthwhile.
Your age: You may think that you are not old enough to need an estate plan. Unfortunately, anyone can come down with an illness or be injured in an accident, rendering them incapacitated or worse. You need a plan for if the worst-case scenario occurs.
You do not want to think about it: We understand that talking about end-of-life plans is rarely someone’s idea of a good time. However, it is not wise to put off estate planning just because it makes you a bit uncomfortable.
Do I Need an Estate Planning Lawyer?
An estate planning lawyer has the knowledge you need to establish a legally binding plan that will distribute your assets to your beneficiaries in the way that you intended. If you try to write a will or make an estate plan on your own, it is possible that you will make a mistake. That could mean that the estate plan you made is no longer legally valid, and that just sends your family back to the courts. Get your estate plan right the first time with the help of our seasoned attorneys.
Schedule Your Consultation
The Lauterbach Law Firm has more than 20 years of experience helping clients who need to plan out their estates and select beneficiaries. Let us put that experience to work for you. Schedule a consultation with our team today.