There are two approaches to probate, proactive and reactive. It is common to procrastinate things that we know we should do, especially when the subject matter is as uncomfortable as death. For this reason, many people procrastinate reviewing their estate plan and can lead to confusion, disagreement, and even litigation in the end. Conversely, properly and considerately undergoing the estate planning process can be a loving last act of endearment for the loved ones we leave behind.
Here are some valuable tips to be proactive in estate planning
Being proactive and asking ourselves and others the hard questions, results in leaving our wishes clear, and leaves less room for misinterpretation and difficulties in probate.
- Review: With the help of experienced legal counsel, current estate plans should be reviewed regularly. A lot can change over the years, such as divorce, business gains, and losses, and new grandchildren being born. It is advisable to consider estate planning as an ongoing process that needs to be updated when situations change, as they tend to do.
- Communication with beneficiaries: The reading of the will should not hold any dramatic surprises. The best way to avoid problems when it comes time for the execution of the last will and testament is to proactively communicate with your loved ones. Setting clear expectations among beneficiaries goes a long way to avoid disappointment.
- Legal correctness: One of the causes of litigation in probate is legal errors in the estate plan. Legal counsel that is well versed in Pennsylvania’s laws for estate planning and probate can help in the process of being proactive with legal correctness.
Following these three simple steps can help reduce the chances of your estate ending up in probate litigation.
There is always a “Calm before the storm.” Now is the time to undergo serious estate planning with the aid of experienced legal counsel in Pennsylvania. Being proactive can reduce the chances of your estate ending in litigation among the beneficiaries.