During this season we give thanks for the love and blessings that surround us and our focus turns to the things we cherish. This is a great time to discuss estate planning and leaving your legacy.
While no one looks forward to talking about the end of their life, there will come a time when the thinking shifts from “if” something were to happen to “when;” but unfortunately none of us really know the when! We all like to think we will pass in our sleep at a ripe old age, but a sudden death can make things incredibly difficult for those we leave behind, much more difficult than a 30 minute after dinner conversation. Leaving your legacy should be about prosperity, peace, and the knowledge that you have left something behind for those you love.
Leaving a legacy doesn’t mean you have to leave an inheritance of millions to a child, children, or relatives. A park bench in your name, a tree planted at the community center, or a few hundred dollars donated to your favorite charity all make an impact. The term legacy simply means “a thing handed down by a predecessor,” or in layman’s terms, a memory of you. What you leave is not as important as how you leave it. Passing without a plan may create a financial burden for family and friends who have to take the long route through the probate court system and may create an emotional burden as they try to determine how you would have liked things, within the constraints of the default legal system.
Having a discussion with your loved ones explaining how you would like to be buried or cremated can give them a purpose and sense of peace after you have gone. Explaining where your various accounts are and who to contact to access them can make the road of succession so much easier. Writing out who you are leaving what to and how prevents confusion and hurt feelings later on. The easiest things fought over are the smallest items: one of mom’s rings, or an old record that was played during childhood. Leaving a clear plan for family to follow is the best legacy you can leave.
Our firm works with families and assets of all sizes. Leaving a legacy is about how you leave, not what you leave. Contact Grissom Law, LLC today at 678-781-9230 to schedule an appointment to discuss your needs.
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This Blog/Web Site is made available for educational purposes only. In addition, it is available to give you general information and a general understanding of the law, not to provide legal advice. By using this blog site you understand that there is no attorney client relationship between you and Grissom Law, LLC.