As we get older, we like to think we get wiser. But even though we’re wiser, we find that we have just as many questions as we had when we were younger. Of course, being older means having much more causes for anxiety: We have families and networks of friends, and we want to make sure they’re all well looked after.
As an Elder Law lawyer in Warwick, RI from a firm like McCarthy Law, LLC can explain, planning for your future is an important step towards ensuring your loved ones are cared for after your death. If you think the future of your family and friends is worth protecting, read on to learn more about what an elder law lawyer can do for you, and gain a better understanding of why (and how) they can protect your legacy and the future of your family and friends.
More than Just Wills
Wills are essential. They’re important documents that go a long way towards dividing your estate satisfactorily after your death. Without a will, the state will appoint a representative from your family to handle to entire process, but this can lead to unsatisfactory results. For example, if you have an ex-spouse, he or she could contest the court’s appointment to give themselves a better chance at taking a slice of your estate. An elder law lawyer can help you draft a will to avoid exactly that.
Elder law and estate planning go hand in hand, but it’s important to remember that estate planning is more than just drafting a will. If you get in touch with an elder law lawyer, you can go over the pros and cons of your estate plan options, and you might elect to establish a living trust. Your lawyer can walk you through what wills and trusts entail, but they can also help you create a durable power of attorney.
Creating a durable power of attorney means that someone is named to handle your affairs if you are no longer able to. This is great for emergencies, but it’s also wise to create a durable power of attorney if your family has a history of Alzheimer’s or dementia. Naming a trusted individual to carry out your wishes if you’re no longer able to is a smart way to ensure your estate is taken care of during – and after – your lifetime.
Of course, when you get in touch with an elder law lawyer, you’re also getting a whole range of other services and advice. If you have disabled or young relatives and you want to make sure they’re cared for after your death, you can even assign guardianship. A guardian is a trusted individual who is selected to take care of your dependents, and with the help of the right lawyer you can make sure you make the best choice.
When you choose a guardian for your relatives in need, you’re making sure they’ll be looked after when you aren’t able to do so yourself. And when you create a durable power of attorney, you’re making sure you’ll be looked after when you aren’t able to do so yourself.
An elder law lawyer is the key to your will (and/or trust), your durable power of attorney, and your guardianship. Don’t hesitate to build the best future possible for your loved ones: Get in touch with an elder law lawyer as soon as possible.