Though many California residents may prefer to live in the present and not think about what could happen in the future, it is smart to consider some future possibilities. Thinking ahead can allow parties to plan ahead for certain events, such as their demise. This may not seem like an appealing topic, but wills and other estate planning documents can be helpful to have.
In particular, thinking ahead for estate planning purposes can benefit many people. It can help the testator ensure that his or her wishes are known for future care and for issues arising after his or her passing. Additionally, it can help beneficiaries know how to handle certain probate-related proceedings and lessen the likelihood of serious problems arising with the estate due to a lack of information and uncertainty.
Thinking about an estate plan ahead of time could also give individuals the chance to fully explore their planning options. Certainly, having a will is important because it can address matters like establishing guardianships for minors that other tools cannot, but trusts may also be useful for protecting assets. Plus, power of attorney documents, health care directives and more could also have their part to play.
It can be difficult to think about wills, trusts, health care decisions and the many other topics that can come up with estate planning. However, having a plan is often much better than not, so California residents may want to take the time to get their affairs in order. If they do not know where to start, they may find it helpful to consult with attorneys experienced in this area of law.
