Addressing the Unique Estate Planning Concerns of Blended Families
It is not unusual for Americans to marry more than once. As a result, blended families are increasingly common. Remarriage can create a number of potential inheritance estate planning issues. Children from a previous marriage and the spouse from the current marriage typically have different needs and different goals. If these issues are not carefully addressed, they can be the source of severe conflict. A skilled estate planning attorney can be instrumental in reducing this conflict.
The Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Freeman are based in Birmingham and represent families across Michigan and beyond. Our lawyers will address the issues your blended family faces and construct an estate plan that meets the needs of your spouse and your children.
Taking Steps Now to Prevent Problems Later
If you are in a second or subsequent marriage, you likely want your estate plan to provide for their new spouse as well as your children from a previous marriage. Unfortunately, without careful estate planning, your spouse could inherit your entire estate, and your children will be disinherited.
Our law firm will establish estate planning instruments that will allow for the orderly distribution of your assets upon your death. For instance, a revocable living trust can ensure that your heirs receive your assets in the manner you intended. We can draft these documents, help you take steps to fund a trust, and advise you as to who would be an appropriate trustee. We can advise as to other ways to provide for your children, such as life insurance and annuities.
Your estate plan can prevent future problems as well. For instance, children and a stepparent may be at odds if you become incapacitated. Our law firm will draft documents, including a power of attorney and patient advocacy forms that leave no question as to your wishes in this event.
You can depend on our attorneys to work closely with you to assess your needs and accomplish your objectives. We will employ innovative ways to protect your assets and ensure that your wishes are carried out.
Please contact our office with any questions 1-866-236-4TAX or by e-mail.
