HOW TO AVOID CONFLICT IN ESTATE PLANNING
Some say, “if there is a will, there is a family fighting over it.” But a brawl between loved ones isn’t necessary if these 6 tips are followed.
1. Make A Plan!
You do not want to leave uncertainty and confusion for your loved ones when you pass. Do not take a “they will figure it out” approach. This is most likely lead to confusion, conflict, and possibly court. Be detailed in your wishes and instructions. If you fail to be clear or make a plan all together then it will be up to the court in deciding who is given what.
There are several options available when deciding an estate plan and what is best for your best friend may not be best for you. Therefore, it may be wise to meet with a knowledgeable estate attorney who can guide you through your planning options.
2. Update On The Regular
Once you make a plan – keep it updated. This does not need to be a weekly event, but it does need to happen when there is a change in life circumstances. These events may include: a divorce, a marriage, change in property ownership, or having a baby.
3. Do Not Rely On Family Utopia
Even if your family gatherings are like a glimpse into Utopia itself, do not rely on everyone agreeing all the time. Life is complicated and constantly changing. Therefore, if a child’s life circumstances change their goals may no longer align with everyone else’s. Change is normal in life and your estate plan should reflect that.
4. Communicate
You are not required to talk to your loved ones about your plans, but this tip is encouraged. Family input may be beneficial and it will lessen the chances of someone being surprised later on. It is also important to communicate in order to have everyone on the same page regarding issues such as: plans for a disabled child, the succession of the family business, or for the continued enjoyment of a vacation home. Although it may be an awkward conversation, it is important to have these discussions.
5. Remove Assets From Probate
Probate is something most people try to avoid and if you want your loved ones getting the most from what you left them, you will too. Two common ways to avoid probate is through revocable trusts and beneficiary designations. Another way to help avoid probate is to make sure the named beneficiaries in other asset documents are consistent with your whole plan. However, once again, it is important to discuss what estate plan options are best for you with an attorney – a revocable trust may not be it and you may be able to avoid probate through other avenues.
6. Consider Someone Outside The Family In Charge Of Assets
Some good choices are a law firm or trust company. By naming someone not in the family, it will help reduce the risk of disharmony. It is crucial to make a smart choice in appointing a Trustee and Agents under Powers of Attorney. You should not make this decision based solely on who is your favorite to hang out with. There are a multitude of factors to take into consideration and you should speak openly with your attorney to decide who would be best for the position.
If you are considering creating an estate plan and would like more information, please contact the experienced family law attorneys at Lonich Patton Erlich Policastri.
Lastly, please remember that each individual situation is unique, and results discussed in this post are not a guarantee of future results. While this post may detail general legal issues, it is not legal advice. Use of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.