Travis Weaver, Attorney and Partner with Weaver Firm-Attorneys in Bartonville and Rhome
Is creating a will or updating a trust your “elephant in the room” for 2024? Below are five solutions to your fears around wills and trusts. These answers also come with good news for your family. They’ll appreciate your decision to avoid the problems of no will, a neglected trust, or dismaying inheritance surprises.
#1 Fear: How do I face “Not Being Here”?
It’s honestly pretty scary to think about not being around. Creating a will forces me to imagine what happens to everything and everyone I care about when I’m gone. I really don’t want to go there.
Solution:
Remember, creating or updating my will or trust doesn’t mean I’ll be gone anytime soon. No one knows or can control that event. And no one takes over my property or accounts unless I give them the capability to do so.
Instead, I can be at peace with the fact that I’ve done my part to take care of loved ones—even when I’m not here. It’s a way to make sure my wishes are known and respected. Plus, I can have a profound sense of relief.
#2 Fear: What if I don’t understand complicated legal stuff?
I’m overwhelmed by all the legal mumbo-jumbo involved in making a will. And I have no idea if I need a trust. The fear of making a mistake or not fully understanding what’s going on is making me want to avoid it completely.
Solution:
I don’t need to be an expert on everything. I go to the doctor when I’m sick. I go to a lawyer for legal help. They can break it down for me and make sure everything is done the way I’ve planned.
If I don’t understand, I can ask questions. If I don’t like the answers, I can find a lawyer who takes the time to explain.
#3 Fear: What if a will sets off family fights?
The idea of my family arguing over who gets what after I’m gone is heart-wrenching. It’s even worse if arguments break out over my will or trust right away. I don’t want to deal with the stress.
Solution:
I can have an open conversation with my family about why I made certain choices in my will or trust. I will be fair and consider the well-being of all. This way, I can likely prevent conflicts.
If I do nothing about a will, there is a real possibility of expensive lawsuits and damaged family relationships. It is a loving and caring act to take steps now to provide for my family’s peaceful future.
#4 Fear: What happens if I change my mind later?
My life has changed over the past 5 years, 10 years, and more. What if I change my mind about the things in my will? What about marriage? Divorce? Children or their husbands and wives? Grandchildren? I need a nap just thinking about it.
Solution:
I can regularly update my will or trust, just like I get my eyes checked once a year or get a flu shot annually. This can become a part of my life every January.
I can also work with my attorney who makes it easy for me to update these documents. My time is valuable, too.
Note: Weaver Firm-Attorneys helps you make changes easily with appointments in person, by phone, or through Zoom.
#5 Fear: What about the cost to create a will or trust?
The idea of spending a lot of money on a lawyer to help with my will or trust seems like a waste. I’d rather spend that money enjoying myself now and let them sort it out when I’m not around.
Solution:
I can remind myself that I can ask an attorney to explain the cost up front for a will similar to my situation before I meet with him or her.
Investing in a will or trust gives me peace of mind and provides security and direction for my loved ones. It is no different than the investment I made in a college savings account for my child or a nice home for my family. I do these things because I want to provide for those I care about the most.
Want to get started on or update your will or trust?
To help you face “the elephant in the room,” Weaver Firm-Attorneys provides a price schedule on our website WeaverLegal.net/price-info.
If you have a complex situation, like a blended family with many different bequests or a business, you’ll pay more. But most situations are simple, and the package pricing we offer helps keep things uncomplicated.
At Weaver Firm-Attorneys, our lawyers create solid wills and trusts every day. We’re glad to help you.
Give us a call today at 817-638-2022 to schedule a lawyer consultation at our office in Bartonville Town Center at 2650 FM 407, Suite 245. We also offer meetings with an attorney by phone or on Zoom.
Visit our website WeaverLegal.net to learn more.
We’re proud to serve families living in Robson Ranch, Argyle, Bartonville, Lantana, Denton, Decatur, and the surrounding area.