The importance of planning one’s estate cannot be overstated. However, what if your spouse does not agree? This is a point of significant distress for many families. Unfortunately, it’s not unusual and many estate planning lawyers, like an estate attorney are familiar with this difficult scenario. Thankfully, there are several approaches you can take that may remedy the situation. Additionally, feel free to encourage your loved one to join you for a free consultation with an estate planning lawyer from our firm. One of our knowledgeable attorneys can provide information about the advantages for the entire family when one plans their estate. Conversely, there are potentially serious ramifications if one dies intestate (without a will) that can be addressed by simply leaving behind a will, trust, or a combination of estate planning tools.
What follows are several suggestions that may be helpful in resolving conflicts regarding planning one’s estate.
Counseling
Whether or not your spouse shared with you why they do not want to focus on planning their estate, they may have very good reasons for it. Dwelling on one’s eventual death is very difficult for many people, perhaps even most people. Many cultures shun such thoughts. Though passing away is inevitable, many fear it, and planning for one’s estate can make one’s eventual death feel that much more real. This is understandable. Your loved one may have these concerns, and they may have others as well. The idea of writing a will might bring up difficult memories. Their reluctance to join you in estate planning may simply be a symptom of a larger issue. For some, seeking counseling with a therapist might provide them with the opportunity to work through these challenges. By taking advantage of individual or couples counseling (or both), at the conclusion of one or more sessions they may be ready to meet with an estate planning lawyer.
Estate Planning On Your Own
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With or without your spouse, you can plan your estate. In fact, even if your spouse agrees to plan his or her own estate, yours will need to be done as a separate process. When both of you plan your estates at the same time, your estate planning lawyer can make sure your wills complement one another and that there are no conflicts. A lawyer can help you or both of you, and provide guidance as to how you may wish to distribute any assets that you jointly own with your spouse. There are also tax saving methods you can utilize when you plan your estate that will benefit your surviving spouse and other heirs.
When You Need an Estate Planning Lawyer You Can Trust
Estate planning can be an emotional issue for some, and potentially stressful for just as many people. Contact a skilled legal team that is compassionate, patient, and understanding when working with clients to plan their estate. With or without your spouse, a skilled lawyer can help you make your final wishes clear to the loved ones you leave behind. Call today.
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