Do you know what is being done in your community to protect the citizens from crime? Do you have a crime-watch program? Is there a community website that lists the current investigations and events that may have recently occurred? Law enforcement officials can only do so much when it comes to protecting a community. If your community is not active in protecting itself, crime rates could rise and many residents could find themselves the target or victim of crimes. Visit my blog to find out what you can do as a community to lower crime rates and help the law enforcement officials do their jobs.
If you have yet to begin working on your estate plan, you should not wait any longer. It does not matter how old you currently are. Having an estate strategy is essential. If you need assistance with your plan, you can receive help by visiting an estate planning attorney. Your attorney might suggest starting your planning by incorporating the following three tools.
Last Will and Testament
One of the most common tools used in estate planning is a last will and testament. This document is one of the first things that families turn to when a loved one dies. Family members read this document to find out important facts about what their deceased loved one wants. For example, a last will and testament may contain vital details about the type of funeral the person wants to have. It might also state who the beneficiaries are of the assets this individual owned. A last will and testament can provide a roadmap to the family for settling the matters of the deceased person's estate.
Living Will
A living will has a completely different purpose than a last will and testament. A living will is a document that allows a person to choose what happens to him or her while the person is still alive. Creating a living will allows you to state your wishes relating to medical care if you become incapacitated.
Power of Attorney
Choosing a power of attorney is another excellent tool to use. A power of attorney gives a person the right to make decisions for you if you cannot make them. For example, if you get sick or injured in an accident and are in a position where you cannot speak or think properly, the person you named as your power of attorney would take over the right to make your decisions. You must choose a person you trust completely to give your power of attorney. You should also know that you can choose one for your medical decisions and a different one for your financial decisions.
Have you started on your estate plan yet? If not, you should, even if you are only in your 20s or 30s. Creating a strategy now offers protection for you and your family and will make it easier for your loved ones if you suddenly pass away. Call an estate planning attorney today to schedule an appointment to begin planning your estate.
Share25 March 2020
