In Calumet City, Illinois, "estate planning" refers to the process by which a person makes arrangements related to their property after their death. It can (and should) also include personal issues that might come up immediately before and after a person's death.
The creation of a will (the document laying out what is to be done with your property after your death) is an essential element of an estate plan, but it is typically not the only element. There are many other essential things that most estate plans should include.
A will is rarely the only aspect of a comprehensive estate plan. Most persons have quite strong preferences about their end-of-life care, particularly when, and under what circumstances, they would want to be taken off life support, if that every happens. These wishes should be made in writing, and discussed with family. Furthermore, preferences on organ donation and funeral arrangements should also be made clear.
If you have young children, it is absolutely crucial that you make arrangements for their care, as well as their custody. Obviously, if you want someone specific to take custody of them in the event something happens, you need to discuss the matter with them, to ensure that they are actually able and willing to care for them.
What Type of Estate Plan Do I Need in Calumet City, Illinois?
The answer to this question varies on your individual needs, your priorities, your health, and the size and nature of your estate.
For instance, if you are in your 20's and unmarried, an estate plan likely does not need to be on your priorities, unless you are very ill, or independently wealthy.
If you're not married in Calumet City, Illinois, but have a life partner, estate planning is imperative. If you want your partner to be treated as your spouse, your estate plan should make arrangements to give him or her power of attorney in the event that you become incapacitated. Furthermore, your will should precisely name your partner as a beneficiary, if you want them to inherit any of your assets.
There is another considerable group of people who would benefit from having a good Calumet City, Illinois 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 includes facing some uncomfortable realities, it is essential and unavoidable.
Do I Need a Calumet City, Illinois Estate Planning Attorney?
Because estate planning in Calumet City, Illinois is not always simple, the assistance of a reliable attorney will almost certainly be useful, and worth the cost. This is doubly true because of how essential the issues involved can be, and the fact that a relatively minor mistake can sometimes derail an entire estate plan.
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