Estate Planning Is Part of Parenting
Many people do not have an estate plan in place in their early to mid-adulthood, which are also the years when they are most likely to have children depending on them. Because daily life can be so hectic with babies, children, and teenagers taking up so much time and energy, many parents put estate planning on the back burner. However, having a will or trust can provide tremendous peace of mind in knowing that if the unthinkable happens, you’ve carefully chosen your guardians and trustees and your children will be well cared for by the people you have handpicked. Probably the most important function of an estate plan during this time of life is naming your children’s guardian and successor guardians (in case your original choice is unable to serve). You can select guardians who share your morals and outlook, and who will parent your children with love and affection. If you don’t name a guardian for your children, a guardian will still be named, but will be chosen by a judge who doesn...