Some people think only wealthy retirees need to make estate plans. In reality, every individual—regardless of age or economic status—should create a plan for the future. You may be tempted to postpone the inevitable, but taking the initiative today may provide you the peace of mind you need. If you’re ready to start writing your will, it’s time to enlist a qualified estate planning attorney. 

Why You Need an Estate Planning Attorney

1. Stay in Control

If you fail to allocate your assets, your legacy will be subject to the state’s intestacy laws. In your estate plan, you have the freedom to specify the precise arrangements for your belongings, property, investments, and other assets after you’re gone. You also won’t have to worry about your private matters becoming public.

2. Protect Your Loved Ones

No one wants to imagine suffering an unexpected death or mentally debilitating injury. However, if something does happen to you, naturally, you want to protect your loved ones. For example, if you have children, you can designate a guardian and trustee to care for them after you’re gone. Otherwise, your children’s care is up to the court’s discretion. Meanwhile, if you are not married to your partner, or if you have any other meaningful, non-legally binding relationships, they will not receive anything unless you include them in your will. 

3. Prepare for the Future

Creating a plan with the help of an estate planning attorney is quick, inexpensive, and simple. Meanwhile, the payoff for planning for the future may be enormous. Since you can also easily change the terms of your agreement later on, it’s never too early to plan ahead.

If you need a trusted estate planning attorney in Iowa, consult the experts from Cronin Skilton & Skilton, P.L.L.C. To schedule a consultation, call the law firm at (641) 228-3318 in Charles City, or (641) 435-2462 in Nashua. The attorneys are skilled in matters of estate law, wills and probate, and other civil litigation cases. To learn more, visit the law firm’s website.