When it comes to estate planning, you want to make certain your plans and goals are both in keeping with your wishes and legally sound. The process of drawing up estate plans can be intricate and involved, so it's best to walk into the experience knowing the basics. To that end, here are some estate planning do’s and don'ts.

Do:

Perform research.

Understanding the available estate planning tools will help you find the best solutions for your legacy. First, acquaint yourself with some of the most popular estate planning documents, such as wills, living wills, and living trusts. Each serves a different purpose, but they can all give you a comprehensive, secure estate plan that honors your goals.

Consult a lawyer.

Your best guidance on the subject of estate planning will come from a legal professional. Enlist the help of a lawyer to get the right estate plan for your needs. You’ll also have the added peace of mind knowing everything is legally sound.

Don’t:

Procrastinate.

It's a misconception that estate planning is something you need only later in life or if you are seriously ill. In fact, any adult should have an estate plan in place. Fortunes and health can change on a dime, and accidents happen every day. Start protecting yourself sooner rather than later to ensure your loved ones are taken care of.

Make estate plans & forget about them.

Update your estate plans as your circumstances change. Births and deaths, marriages and divorces, new children and grandchildren are all events that should prompt you to update your estate plans. Also, take note if your financial situation changes significantly. You want your documents to accurately reflect your life in the present moment.

If you live in the Cameron, MO, region, let the Law Office of Drew F. Davis assist you in every step of the estate planning process. For more than 20 years, Attorney Davis has represented clients in northwest Missouri with all manner of legal issues. Call (816) 632-7575 or visit the law firm online to make an appointment today.