When planning for the final disposition of your estate in Rockingham, 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 handled? Do you have any certain wishes concerning 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 normally one of the most critical 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 critical to discuss this matter with that person before you really do it.

What Type of Estate Plan Do I Need in Rockingham, North Carolina?

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

For example, if you are in your 20's and unmarried, an estate plan probably does not need to be on your priorities, unless you are very ill, or independently wealthy.

There is one group of unmarried people for whom estate planning in Rockingham, North Carolina is absolutely essential: 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 many steps to secure these rights, such as granting power of attorney, and writing them into your will.

There is another massive group of people who would benefit from having a good Rockingham, 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 contains facing some uncomfortable realities, it is critical and unavoidable.

Do I Need a Rockingham, North Carolina Estate Planning Attorney?

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