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The True Cost of Not Having a Will

Posted by Susan A. Katzen | Jan 19, 2025 | 0 Comments

When Lisa first walked into my office, she looked exhausted. Her father had passed away unexpectedly a few months earlier, and she and her siblings were left grappling with the emotional loss—and the legal mess he left behind. Lisa's father had always intended to create a will but kept putting it off, thinking there was plenty of time to handle it later.

The reality hit hard. Without a will, Lisa and her siblings had to go through probate court to settle their father's estate. Probate isn't just a legal process; it's a long, drawn-out ordeal that can cost thousands of dollars in fees and drag on for months—or even years. Lisa had to take unpaid time off work to attend court hearings and meet with attorneys, adding financial strain to an already stressful situation.

To make matters worse, her father's estate became a point of contention among her siblings. There was no clear plan for who would inherit certain assets, like the family home or his retirement savings. Old grievances surfaced, and arguments escalated. What should have been a time of unity and remembrance turned into a painful rift in their family.

This story is sadly common. I see too many families fall into chaos simply because someone didn't take the time to create even a basic will. A will is the cornerstone of any estate plan, outlining how you want your assets distributed after you're gone. It provides clarity and direction, saving your loved ones from unnecessary stress and conflict.

But what if you want to go a step further? That's where a trust comes in. A trust allows you to bypass probate entirely, keeping the process private and streamlined. For example, when I worked with another client, Grace, we established a trust that included her home, investment accounts, and a plan for her grandchildren's education. When Grace passed away, her heirs were able to access their inheritance almost immediately without going to court.

A trust isn't just for the wealthy. It's a powerful tool that offers flexibility and protection for families of all sizes and financial situations. For blended families, families with minor children, or those with significant assets, a trust can make all the difference in preserving harmony and ensuring your wishes are honored.

Lisa's story didn't have to unfold this way. With just a little planning, her father could have left a clear legacy instead of chaos. If you've been procrastinating on your estate plan, let Lisa's experience be a wake-up call. Don't leave your family to navigate the unknown during an already difficult time.

Request a Consultation to take the first step toward protecting your loved ones and preserving your peace of mind.

About the Author

Susan A. Katzen

"I firmly believe our clients should be treated the way I would want my own family members to be treated. As a result, not only have I put together a compassionate and highly skilled team of people, but together we have served families from the grandparents down to the grandchildren. My staff and...

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