Many millennials feel like they don’t need to consult an estate lawyer, but this can be a serious mistake. If something happens unexpectedly, your family may be unprotected and your estate may be at risk of losing its assets. Here’s a guide that establishes the importance of creating a thorough estate plan as early as possible.

4 Reasons to See an Estate Lawyer While You’re Young

1. Leave Assets to an Unmarried Partner

If you’re legally married and you pass away without a will, a portion of your assets will go to your spouse as a matter of state law. However, many couples prefer to remain unmarried today. While that type of living situation provides advantages, it also means your partner has no right to make claims on your estate. If you want to leave assets to your partner, asking your estate lawyer to help you draft a will is the best course of action.

2. Protect Your Children

The future care of your children may be impacted if you die without a will. If you don’t draft a will that appoints guardians for your children, this responsibility falls to the courts. A judge might appoint someone that you wouldn’t trust, who may not provide your children with a nurturing and loving environment. Your lawyer can prevent this by allowing you to choose a guardian for your kids.

3. Take Care of Digital Content 

Today, much of what we do takes place online, from banking to connecting with friends on social media websites. It’s important to choose someone to manage or delete those accounts if you pass away. Often called a digital executor, this is a person you can choose to cancel or pass on existing accounts, download photos and videos, and notify contacts of your death. You can leave this person a list of usernames and passwords to access and manage your financial, business, and social media accounts.

4. Plan for an Unexpected Illness or Injury

Your attorney can also help you plan for medical emergencies. If a medical condition compromises your cognitive functioning, or leaves you unable to communicate, a medical power of attorney will allow you to appoint an individual to make healthcare decisions for you. Similarly, you can create a financial power of attorney, which lets you choose someone to manage your finances until you recover. Since an illness or injury can happen anytime, you should have these precautions in place as soon as possible.

When you work with an experienced estate lawyer, you can create a thorough plan that’s customized for your situation. Located in Bullhead City, AZ, Knochel Law Offices provides comprehensive estate planning services to help you protect your assets and your loved ones. They have been practicing since 1987, which gives them the skills and knowledge you can trust to meet your needs. To schedule a consultation, visit their website or call (928) 444-1000.