Trying to nail down solid plans may have never been a strong point for some California residents. As a result, they may have a go-with-the-flow attitude about many aspects of life. However, when it comes to planning for after-death matters, it is typically better to allow wills and other estate planning documents to play a role.
Even if people are not overly keen on starting the estate planning process, having at least a will in place could prove invaluable to loved ones in the event of a person’s passing. This document can provide useful information, such as who should act as executor or take on the role of guardian for minor children, and can help with the property distribution process. Often, individuals use their will as the cornerstone of their estate plan.
Of course, using just a will can have its downsides as well. A will must be probated by the court, and if all assets are distributed through this process, it can take a considerable amount of time to complete. Plus, probate handles a number of other estate-related affairs, like paying final bills, locating beneficiaries and more, so it can be a complicated process.
Still, starting on an estate plan is better than having no plan at all. California residents interested in creating wills, trusts or other estate planning documents may want to ensure that they do so correctly. By enlisting the help of experienced attorneys, parties may have a better chance of getting their wishes down in legally binding documents that can help their families in the future.
