As time goes on, blended families become more and more common, leading stepparents to develop bonds with their spouse’s children and vice versa. If you’ve become close to your stepchildren and intend to recognize them in your will, there are a few differences to note during the drafting phase. The following guide will help you understand what your loved ones may be entitled to and how you can leave them gifts. 

Defining Stepchildren

If you’ve married an individual who already had children, they’ll become your stepchildren, but there are no legal ties between you — according to the courts, your relationship is no closer than a friend. Consequently, you’ll have to clearly outline your intentions to leave gifts to your stepchildren in your will.

Leaving Gifts

When preparing your will, you may want to bestow gifts on your stepchildren, especially if you’ve developed a close relationship over the years. You can offer them a percentage of your collective estate or a specific gift, such as a dollar amount or a family heirloom.

When regarding your stepchildren in a legal document, avoid using words that could be confused for meaning natural children, especially if you have biological or legal children of your own. These terms include heirs, descendants, and of course, children. To ensure you choose the correct terminology, seek out the guidance of an estate planning attorney. They can also help you navigate other aspects of your will relating to your stepchildren, such as naming them a beneficiary of a trust or life insurance policy.

Whatever you have in mind for your heirs in your final wishes, Alan A. Panek Law Office, S.C. of Central Wisconsin can help you draft a will that upholds your legacy and rewards your loved ones. They can also help you navigate the complexities of a blended family according to the legal system so you can rest assured your stepchildren receive your intended gifts. To schedule an appointment, call (715) 421-4900, or visit their website to learn more about their services.