Estate Documents

Every adult should take the time to make an estate plan. This can be the difference between your loved ones having space to mourn and managing chaotic logistical issues in the face of your passing. It also ensures your wishes are clear and easily followed. At a minimum, most people need to execute the following four documents:

• Last will and testament — When a person dies, that person leaves behind an estate. A person’s estate consists of all their assets (e.g., car, bank account, property, etc.), liabilities (e.g., debt, mortgage, etc.) and claims (e.g., a right to sue someone). A will is a document that directs how your estate is to be administered upon your death. It appoints an executor (the person who administers your estate) and lists the beneficiaries who will receive your estate assets. It is also used to express your wishes as to who should be appointed as guardian of any minor children you might have. Problems arise when a person dies without a valid will. These problems include increased costs of administering your estate, family fighting over property and the loss of your ability to distribute your property the way you would like. Without a valid will to go by, a court will use a state-created distribution system to distribute your property how it sees fit, whether you agree with it or not.
• Statutory durable power of attorney — This document allows you to appoint another person (i.e., an agent) to make personal nonmedical decisions for you if you are ever unable to because of physical or mental incapacity. Such decisions include but are not limited to financial, property, insurance, business, litigation, investment and tax matters.
• Medical power of attorney — This document allows you to appoint another person (i.e., an agent) to make medical treatment decisions for you if you are ever unable to because of physical or mental incapacity.
• Directive to physicians/living will — If you are ever suffering from a terminal or irreversible condition in which you would die without continuous life-sustaining support, this document allows you to direct that you will either be given life-sustaining treatment, or be allowed to die naturally while being kept comfortable. A directive allows you to make the choice rather than placing this burdensome decision on your loved ones.

If you have not executed these documents, the time is now to take responsibility for your estate and provide direction and assurance for your loved ones. Because life is unpredictable, don’t postpone your decision to take control of these matters. Call The Daws Law Firm today at 409-838-6000 for a free consultation about drafting and executing these documents. The process is very easy and affordable. You can also reach the firm online using our contact form.