If you’ve never thought about the services probate attorneys can provide or just don’t understand why they’re important, you probably don’t understand why it’s vital to have an attorney help you through the estate planning process. Many people mistakenly think that planning is only for the very wealthy or those who have a lot of family members to divide things among. Instead, consider these three situations that require the assistance of an attorney.
Call a lawyer before you think you need one.
Many people wait until it is absolutely necessary to create a will, that is, they wait until they are faced with their own mortality. This is a wake-up call that urges someone to take action, but don’t wait! An accident or illness could hit you at any time, which could prevent you from expressing your wishes to your friends or family. Professionally drafted legal documents can help ensure that your friends and family understand what medical decisions you want made so they can follow your wishes exactly.
Use Real Estate Lawyers Even If You Have No Direct Beneficiaries
If you don’t have any living relatives, you probably don’t know why having a will is important. Without directly related family members, such as mother, father, siblings, aunts, uncles, or grandparents, your assets could be divided between relatives you don’t know, and in some cases, relatives you don’t even know!
When you write a will with a professional attorney, he or she will be able to help you determine where your assets will end up. This means that he may decide to leave his assets to a favorite charity of her choice or even a friend. A friend has no legal rights to his estate, so if he wants him to receive something, he will need to take legal action to make it happen.
Keep your family from arguing after your death
It is an unfortunate truth that family members often argue and fight over the distribution of assets after a loved one passes away. To help prevent them from falling out with each other, make sure they understand what will happen to your belongings or your life insurance policy after you’re gone. Ask your estate attorneys to help you divide your possessions equally so that everyone receives an equal share of your assets.
It is also important that your loved ones understand what needs to happen during your funeral services. If you want a specific type of service or have certain burial or cremation wishes, you should discuss this with your loved ones in advance. This will help ensure your wishes are followed and reduce stress on your family members when they are already worried and overwhelmed.
Whether you have an extensive estate or simply need a cut and dry will to protect your family, estate attorneys are an important part of this process. To find one with experience in your local area, talk to your co-workers, friends, and family for a personal recommendation.
