Maryland has specific requirements for a valid will. You may be surprised at how your assets will be distributed if you pass away without a will or have a defective will.
What happens to your minor children and your beloved family pets if you are involved in a serious accident and you are hospitalized? Perhaps you are traveling for work and are unable to return home as scheduled. Did you legally name guardians for your children? Did you make arrangements for the care of family pets? Even if you have done so, did you provide for the first twenty-four hours when local officials locate those guardians and make arrangements for them to take custody of your children? What happens if the worst comes to pass?
You may be surprised by whom the authorities may entrust your children. Your children may find themselves in the custody of strangers through the social services system. It may be that very relative who you love but has his or her own struggles and is unable to effectively care for your children. Planning for these unexpected emergencies can eliminate your children’s anxieties as well as your own worries.
Family Emergency Preparedness can be accomplished in a very straightforward and economical manner. Documents can be prepared ahead of time which will direct who has temporary guardianship of your children and who will assume care of your family pets. These documents can also direct where your children and pets stay until you are back home. Likewise, if the unspeakable occurs, your Last Will and Testament can make these arrangements permanent.
If you are interested in discussing your Family Emergency Preparedness Plan, review of your existing will, or obtaining a new will, please contact us. Consultation can be in person or by videoconference. I am available to assist you in creating a new or updated will or a Family Emergency Plan and best of all- give the entire family- peace of mind!