In Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, estate planning is the process of determining what you want done with your property after your death (which is, of course, a very personal decision), and then setting up the legal and financial arrangements to ensure that your wishes are carried out.

The drafting of a will, which simply states what you wish to be done with your property after death, is normally one of the most essential parts of an estate plan. Of course, it's rarely the only one. There are many other things you might want to include, depending on your objectives.

In addition to a well-drafted will, a comprehensive estate plan should include things like a living will (healthcare directives made in advance, in case you become incapacitated and unable to make or express such decisions), funeral instructions, and instructions relating to organ donations.

For anyone who has children who are still minors, it is very important to make arrangements for their custody and care, just in case the unthinkable happens. You should think of a family member or very close friend who you know would be willing and able to take care of your children, and designate them as the person who would take custody. Of course, it's essential to discuss this matter with that person before you really do it.

What Type of Estate Plan Do I Need in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin?

The answer to this question depends on your individual needs, your priorities, your health, and the size and nature of your estate.

If you are in good health, young, and not married, planning an estate is probably not a high priority. And at this point in your life, it doesn't really have to be, with a few possible exceptions, such as individuals who work in very dangerous jobs, or who are very wealthy.

If you are unmarried, but have a life partner in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin, estate planning is crucial, if you wish for your life partner to be treated as if he or she were your spouse (to the extent possible). In such a situation, the estate plan should make arrangements to give your life partner power of attorney in case you become incapacitated. Your will should also clearly include your partner (if you wish for them to inherit any of your assets).

There is another massive group of people who would benefit from having a good Milwaukee County, Wisconsin estate plan: the elderly and those with a lot of money really need to consider making a comprehensive estate plan as soon as possible. While this necessarily contains facing some uncomfortable realities, it is essential and unavoidable.

Do I Need a Milwaukee County, Wisconsin Estate Planning Attorney?

Because estate planning can be a convoluted process, the expertise of a good lawyer in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin who specializes in wills, trusts, and estates can make the process a great deal easier.