Estate Planning For Blended Families Can Be A Critical Peacekeeping Factor

Getting married for the second time can present complex estate planning issues. This is especially true if you have children from a previous marriage as well as your second marriage. Even if your divorce was not a contentious one, it is vital to update your existing estate plan, including your power of attorney and living trusts, as soon as possible.

If you do not already have an estate plan, making a will now is essential to safeguard your intentions to include — or not include — your heirs in your estate plan.

At Lisha A. Seery, LLC, in Springfield, we help clients understand these issues so they can craft an estate plan that takes care of their loved ones in a manner of their choosing. Because of our focus on estate planning, probate and family law, we have the necessary skill and experience helpful to clients facing situations in which these areas of law intersect.

Blended Family Concerns Left Unchecked Could Result In Unintended Disputes

Carefully drafted wills and trusts are crucial elements of estate planning for blended families. Establishing separate trusts can be an especially effective tool for setting aside assets for a child from a previous relationship without your former spouse being in charge of those assets.

It is also necessary to review beneficiary designations you may have made in benefit plans, insurance policies and retirement accounts.

There are many steps to take to create an effective estate plan, and an experienced lawyer can guide you through the process. Without taking these steps, certain members of your family may be left out when it comes time to distribute your wealth and assets. This can lead to heated disputes between spouses and between children.

Trust Your Estate Plan To An Experienced Lawyer

If you are preparing an estate plan in a blended family, work with a trusted attorney. With more than 20 years of experience helping individuals and families in Missouri, attorney Seery can help you navigate this complex legal terrain. Contact us online or by telephone at 417-459-4390 to arrange your initial consultation.