It may seem that every day, we see our world becoming even more of a paperless, thumb-or-eye-scanning, microchipped universe. Data mining and personal metrics are replacing, for the most part, research and record-keeping on paper. As a high net worth individual, you are already aware of the challenging complexity of staying on top of even your everyday information. So the subject of this blog may surprise you, because it is about the importance of papers – a particular set of papers and their importance to you and to your family.
Let’s say you are preparing to take an extended trip. Even with others taking care of plans and details, there is one major responsibility that is yours alone: to review your estate plan and its associated documents to ensure they are in order before you leave.
Some of the more common documents that can comprise an estate plan include:
- Last will and testament
- Trust documents (if applicable; often a basic financial entity for high net worth individuals
- Durable power of attorney (to manage your financial affairs outside of trusts)
- Power of attorney for healthcare (to make decisions regarding treatment and care)
Now, as important as these documents are we do not advocate taking originals with you; if you wish to carry hard copies that is up to you. The original estate planning documents should be in the hands of your attorney(s) as well as easily accessible to a responsible person you have designated, one who will take appropriate action in a timely manner.
We hope that your primary takeaway from this blog is to remember to ensure your estate plan is up to date and in order. We’d also like to remind you to inform and communicate with your family and friends – anyone who should know what to do if something unexpected happens while you are away.
If you need to create or update important personal legal documents, or have questions about what you may need to add, it’s always a good idea to consult a knowledgeable family law attorney.
As Orange County’s premier family law specialists, the attorneys at Dinnebier & Demmerle can provide answers to your questions and concerns, clarify and establish your legal rights, and represent you in court. If you would like more information about emancipation or any other aspect of California family law, please call to set up a consultation. We’re ready to move forward when you are. Just contact us in Tustin at 714-598-3714.