Estate planning in Belmont, Massachusetts is simply the act of deciding what you want to happen to your assets after your death. It typically entails making plans about funeral arrangements, as well as plans for end of life care.

Usually, the first thing a person thinks about when they think about estate planning is a will. A will dictates what occurs to a person's property after they die. In general, you can leave your property to whomever you want, and attach almost any condition to such gifts. In the vast majority of estate plans, a will is the central component. It is rarely the only one, however.

In addition to a well-drafted will, a comprehensive estate plan should contain 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.

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 Belmont, Massachusetts?

This typically depends on your individual goals and priorities, your age, health, and the nature and quantity of your assets.

Unmarried young adults usually don't think much about estate planning. In most cases, this is fine. Unless you are very sick or have an unusually large amount of assets, estate planning is not something to really worry about at this point in your life.

If you are unmarried, but have a life partner in Belmont, Massachusetts, 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 case, the estate plan should make arrangements to give your life partner power of attorney in case you become incapacitated. Your will should also precisely include your partner (if you wish for them to inherit any of your assets).

If you are very old, and have a considerable estate in Belmont, Massachusetts, you should definitely come up with an estate plan if you haven't already. Admittedly, this includes confronting some unpleasant and morbid subjects, but it is still very essential. Estate planning is essential if you care at all what happens to your property, and, more importantly, your loved ones, after you die.

Do I Need a Belmont, Massachusetts Estate Planning Attorney?

Estate planning in Belmont, Massachusetts is not always convoluted, but it certainly can be. In moderately-sized to large estates, with a substantial number of potential beneficiaries, it is crucial to have the assistance of an estate planning professional.