Many people believe that estate planning is always something that can be taken care of later, but the unexpected can occur at any time. After your death, your estate plan will ensure that your wishes are respected, minimize conflicts between your family members, and empower those you trust to manage your affairs. Below are a few reasons everyone should begin this process as early as possible.

3 Benefits of Early Estate Planning

1. Control Over Your Assets

No matter how often you’ve verbally expressed your wishes about who should get your belongings after you pass away, writing a will or establishing a trust is the only way to guarantee that your instructions are followed. Without an estate plan, your assets will be distributed to your family members by the probate court, without regard to the relationships that were most important to you in life. This means that your most valuable possessions could go to family members from whom you’re estranged, or people you don’t even know.

2. Making Medical Decisions in Advance

Your estate plan should also include an advance medical directive, leaving instructions for your doctors if you’re too badly hurt to communicate. These documents ensure that you get the health care you want and can prevent bitter conflicts between family members who have different values.

3. Empowering Those You Trust

You might believe that your spouse, children, or business partners would be able to manage your finances or make deals on your behalf if you’re incapacitated. However, this usually is not the case, so your estate plan should include durable powers of attorney empowering people you choose to make important decisions for you.

For over 25 years, Arndt Buswell & Thorn S.C. has provided comprehensive legal solutions to clients throughout central and southern Wisconsin. With their extensive background and experience working with families from all walks of life, their estate planning professionals will ensure that your wishes are respected. To arrange a consultation, visit their website, call (608) 269-1200 to reach their office in Sparta, or dial (608) 486-2324 to speak to someone in Bangor. For regular news and updates, follow the law firm on Facebook today.