When planning for the final disposition of your estate in Lumberton, North Carolina, there are a few things you'll want to consider: who do you want to give your assets to, and under what conditions? Do you have any preference for how your funeral should be done? Do you have any specific wishes regarding end-of-life care? These questions, and more, should all be taken into account.
The drafting of a will, which simply states what you wish to be done with your property after death, is usually one of the most crucial 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 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.
Crucially, your plan should make arrangements for the care and custody of your children, if they are minors. Nonetheless you should initially discuss this matter with the person who you intend to take custody of your children in case something happens to you, to make sure they are willing and able to do so.
What Type of Estate Plan Do I Need in Lumberton, North Carolina?
The answer to this question varies 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 likely not a high priority. And at this time in your life, it doesn't really have to be, with a few possible exceptions, such as individuals who work in very hazardous jobs, or who are very wealthy.
There is one group of unmarried people for whom estate planning in Lumberton, North Carolina is absolutely crucial: adults who are not married, but have a life partner who they'd like to provide for in the event of death. There are many rights that automatically attach with marriage, such as the right to inherit if a spouse dies without a will, the right to make medical decisions for the other spouse if they become incapacitated, etc. If you and your partner are, for whatever reason, unable or unwilling to get married, you will have to take several steps to secure these rights, such as authorizing power of attorney, and writing them into your will.
There is another large group of people who would benefit from having a good Lumberton, North Carolina 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 involves facing some uncomfortable realities, it is crucial and unavoidable.
Do I Need a Lumberton, North Carolina Estate Planning Attorney?
Because estate planning in Lumberton, North Carolina can involve some confusing legal and financial issues, it is crucial to undertake this task with the guidance of an experienced attorney who specializes in estate planning.
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