Estate planning is a topic of conversation that is often put off because it can be uncomfortable, but it’s an incredibly important conversation to have. The attorneys at The Law Office of Pamela J Helton are well versed in estate planning and helping clients through the process. We offer the following recommendations to help you make this task as comfortable as possible:
Help all involved parties understand that this is a conversation of respect and love. Children want to honor their parent’s wishes and parents do not want to burden their children with difficult decisions.
Choose a positive and comfortable environment to hold the discussion.
If you’re thinking about estate planning, then the time to do it is now. We don’t know what tomorrow will bring and everyone involved will be better off when prepared.
Plan the conversation before beginning. Learn what specific topics need to be discussed and what options are available. Speak with an attorney to be sure you cover all necessary topics for your state.
Involve all family members to help limit problems down the line. Don’t put all the responsibility on one person’s shoulders and avoid keeping secrets.
Make a list of all important documents and where they are kept. Create a master list of logins and passwords.
When preparing wills, we often recommend a package of documents that work together to secure your assets and final wishes.
A Will Package consists of:·
Living Will and Testament - This document testifies on your behalf as to what you would like done with all major assets after you pass away.
Living Will and Designation of Healthcare Surrogate - States what you would like done in the event you are still alive, but unable to make decisions for yourself (Coma, Advanced Dementia, Alzheimer, etc.).
Durable Power of Attorney - Gives someone of your choice the power and authority to be able to legally sign documents for you. This is necessary to take care of closing any financial accounts, transfer/disburse money, pay bills, etc. in the event you are alive, but unable to take care of those matters yourself.
Designation of Preneed Guardian - Gives an individual of your choosing permission to take care of either you (due to mental illness, paralysis, coma, etc.) or your minor children in the event you are unable to do so.
Memorandum of Tangible Personal Property - All personal items (personal collections, jewelry, artwork, etc.) that you would like to give to a specific friend or loved one upon your demise.
Laws differ from state to state, so if you have relocated to Florida it’s important to have your documents reviewed and modified if needed. We have been drafting wills and doing estate planning since 1997. Our experience will help ensure that all matters are discussed and all documents are prepared.
Please call our office, 352-243-9991, to schedule an appointment to discuss wills and estate planning as well as all other family law matters. We will be happy to help.
