Losing a loved one is hard enough, but if you want things to be as easy as possible for your family after you are gone, you should have a will and/or a living trust. However, just putting these documents into place is not adequate.
You should establish a relationship with a Personal Family Lawyer throughout your lifetime. That way, if something happens to you, your lawyer will be familiar with your family, goals, values, and assets and will be better able to guide your family and carry out your wishes. Taking care of your financial affairs during your life and working with a trusted advisor is one of the greatest gifts you can provide your family. Your family will feel taken care of and they will not be left feeling confused and overwhelmed because your lawyer will be there to guide them. Otherwise, your family will be left wondering what to do with a set of unfamiliar documents and they will not know who to turn to for guidance.
A lawyer that is familiar with your familial dynamics can also help keep your family together during stressful times.
A software program or do-it-yourself kit will not be able to provide your family with the type of guidance I am talking about. Only an estate-planning lawyer can offer you peace of mind; your family will have a trusted advisor to turn to when they can no longer turn to you.
For more information on working with a Personal Family Lawyer, call the Law Offices of Lisa S. Golshani at 661-362-0770.