Have You Looked at Your Estate Plan Documents Lately?
Does this sound familiar?
“John and Mary kept delaying any discussions about preparing estate planning. After they had their first child, Jack, they finally decided it was time to discuss their estate plan with a lawyer. They set up a trust for Jack if anything happened to John and Mary and designated John’s parents, who were then 65, as Jack’s guardian and the trustee of the trust. Since they had meager assets, they left everything outright to him at age 25. John and Mary ignored these documents and made none of the transfers recommended by their lawyer to avoid probate.
Ten years passed by. They now have three children, Jack, (10) Jackie (7) and Maureen (4). Jack’s parents have moved away to enjoy warmer climates.
John and Mary should revisit their estate planning desires. Are his parents still capable of raising their children? When Maureen is 16, Jack’s parents will be 87. Have Jack and Mary considered planning possibilities for their digital assets? What about their business? Can it operate after they are no longer able to manage it? Are their children able to handle their inheritance as originally planned? Are John and Mary’s health care powers and living will directions up-to-date? Have they considered the effect that taxes and probate might have on their plan? Are there any other special circumstances they need to plan for?
We recommend you review your estate plan every 2-3 years or more often based upon your changes in family and your finances. Isn’t it time you reviewed your estate plan??
To discuss any questions you have regarding your estate plan or for a complimentary estate plan review, please contact Morris Saunders at (312) 368-0100.
