While parents usually need to create an estate plan with their children in mind, if you don’t have any children, it’s equally important to have an estate plan that spells out your wishes and desires. Especially if you have no children and no spouse, you need to create a document that specifies particular individuals and/or charities to receive your assets and properties, or everything you have could go to the government – an option most people do not prefer. In southern California, you can learn more and obtain the estate planning services and advice you need by consulting with an experienced Orange County estate planning attorney. It’s never too early to start the estate planning process.
People without children can overlook the necessity for estate planning. In the absence of a will, people with children have obvious legal heirs, but if you have no children, creating a will or a living trust is imperative – if you have specific wishes for your property and assets. While having a family creates a certain urgency about estate planning – because people you love are depending on you – people without children need to have a will or a trust, health care directives, and a power of attorney in place as well. If you become incapacitated, for example, who is authorized to manage your affairs? Emergencies arise, and you need to be prepared.
Whether you’re leaving a trust for a pet, funds for treasured friends or relatives, or leaving all or some of your assets to a charity, creating a legally-enforceable will ensures that the government won’t grab everything when you’re gone. You’ll have the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’ve done the right thing about the future. Whether you have children or not, whether you are married or single, and regardless of your age, have an estate plan in place. An experienced Orange County estate planning attorney can help. Make the call as quickly as possible.
