One of the responsibilities for new parents that often gets overlooked amid the excitement of welcoming a new baby is estate planning. While the thought of drafting a will might seem daunting or even morbid, it's an important step in ensuring your child's future is secure. Here's why you should consider hiring an estate attorney to guide you through the process.
Protecting Your Child's Future
The primary reason to have a will as new parents is to protect your child's future. Creating a will enables you to appoint a guardian for your child in the event that something should happen to both parents. Without a will, the decision about who will care for your child could be left up to the courts. An estate attorney can provide valuable advice on choosing a suitable guardian, taking into account various factors such as age, health, lifestyle, and willingness to take on the responsibility.
Ensuring Your Wishes Are Followed
An estate attorney can help ensure your wishes are carried out exactly as you want them to be. This includes not only who will care for your child but also how your assets will be distributed. You may want to set up a trust for your child to ensure they are financially taken care of, and an attorney can guide you through this process.
Avoiding Legal Pitfalls
Estate law can be complex and varies by state. By hiring an estate attorney, you can avoid common legal pitfalls that could potentially invalidate your will or create difficulties for your loved ones later on. An attorney can also update your will as your family and financial situation changes over time.
Peace of Mind
Perhaps one of the biggest advantages of hiring an estate attorney to write your will is the peace of mind it brings. Knowing that you have taken all necessary measures to safeguard your child and ensure their welfare can alleviate some of the anxiety that accompanies parenthood.
While no one likes to think about worst-case scenarios, especially when celebrating something as joyous as a new baby, having a will is an important part of being a responsible parent. Ensuring your child's care as per your desires, regardless of circumstances, is paramount. A will is not a one-and-done document. As your family grows and changes, so too should your will. Regular check-ins with your estate attorney can ensure that your will continues to serve your family's needs and protects your most precious asset: your child.
Ultimately, the goal is to enjoy the precious moments of parenthood, knowing you've done everything you can to safeguard your child's future. For more information, contact a wills lawyer near you.
