Q. What is the biggest misconception people have about estate planning?
A. Many people think estate planning is only about deciding who gets your assets after you pass away. In reality, it’s just as important in your lifetime if you become unable to make decisions for yourself. A common assumption is that your spouse can automatically make your medical and financial decisions if you become incapacitated. In many cases, that’s not true. Without the proper legal documents, your loved ones may need to go through the time, expense, and stress of a court-ordered guardianship or conservatorship just to help you. By putting a Patient Advocate Designation and Durable Power of Attorney in place, you can choose who will make medical and financial decisions on your behalf and help your family avoid unnecessary court involvement.
Q. What surprises clients most during the estate planning process?
A. According to a 2025 survey*, 43% of people without an estate plan said they simply “haven’t gotten around to it.” Many assume the process will be overwhelming or time-consuming. In reality, many of our clients are surprised by how straightforward the process is. They often leave commenting on how easy the process was, and wonder why they didn’t do it sooner.
Q. What is one thing you wish every client knew before meeting with an estate planning attorney?
A. One thing I wish every client knew is that meeting with an estate planning attorney doesn’t have to be intimidating or expensive. At our firm, we offer complimentary estate planning consultations because we believe people should have the opportunity to understand their options before making any financial commitment. Our goal is to educate prospective clients about the benefits of a comprehensive estate plan and the potential consequences of not having one.
An informed decision is always the best decision, and we want people to feel comfortable asking questions and learning about the planning process before deciding how to move forward.
Q. When should someone setup their estate plan?
A. If you have young children, an estate plan is one of the most important gifts you can give your family. It allows you to choose who will care for your children, appoint someone to manage their inheritance without unnecessary court involvement, and ensure they receive their inheritance according to a plan you design—not all at once when they turn 18. A properly drafted estate plan gives you control, protects your children, and provides peace of mind for your family.