Estate planning is a very broad term in Exeter, Pennsylvania, referring to a person's arrangements on issues that affect them and their family toward the end of their life. These might include instructions for end-of-life care, as well as drafting a will or other document with the intent of disposing of one's property after their death.

The drafting of a will, which simply states what you wish to be done with your property after death, is typically one of the most necessary 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.

Crucially, your plan should make arrangements for the care and custody of your children, if they are minors. However you should first 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 Exeter, Pennsylvania?

Obviously, this depends on your needs, which you will have to figure out for yourself. Some general considerations in making this decision, however, are your health, age, and the amount of assets involved.

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.

If you have a life partner in Exeter, Pennsylvania, but aren't married to him or her, estate planning is necessary. If you want your partner to have most of the same rights and responsibilities as a spouse, it's typically possible with good estate planning. You should grant your partner power of attorney, so they can make arrangements for you in case you become incapacitated. Moreover, you should name your partner as a beneficiary in your will, because, unlike a spouse, a life partner will not automatically inherit your property if you die without a will.

Individuals who are elderly and/or have a considerable amount of money in Exeter, Pennsylvania are probably more in need of an estate plan than almost anyone else. Most people place a lot of value in the peace of mind that comes when they know that the people they love, or the causes they care about, will be taken care of after their death. Of course, nobody likes to confront the facts that this process always includes, but it's necessary.

Do I Need a Exeter, Pennsylvania Estate Planning Attorney?

Because estate planning in Exeter, Pennsylvania can involve some perplexing legal and financial issues, it is necessary to undertake this task with the guidance of an experienced attorney who specializes in estate planning.