Most people here in Georgia recognize how important it is to create a will to ensure that their final wishes are honored. However, many are unaware that a will is just one part of a complete estate plan. Estate planning can include a living will, directives for end-of-life care and/or a power of attorney. It is important that people communicate with family members to ensure that their estate plan is handled by a trustworthy party, whether that person is a family member or a designated professional. This is what one family is dealing with after a man was sentenced to two years in jail for charges relating to elder abuse of their older family member.
Man sentenced in elder abuse case
It is prudent to have wills and other estate plans in place
Estate planning is a prudent step for all Georgia adults, regardless of income, the size of the person's estate and health status. For married and single individuals alike, there is significant benefit in drafting wills and other estate planning documents to have protection and peace of mind. Failure to have even a basic will can be financially imprudent, leading to risk and complications down the road.
What happens when there are multiple wills for an estate?
After the death of a loved one, Georgia family members will review estate planning documents and determine what that individual wanted to do with his or her estate. Often, this means looking at a will to see what the decedent wanted to happen with assets, money, real estate and more. However, this process can become quite complicated when the family discovers there are multiple wills for the estate.
Wills can protect loved ones from unnecessary complications
Estate planning looks different for every person and family. What is necessary to have the right protections in place depend on factors such as the size of the Georgia estate, beneficiaries and goals a person may have for his or her future. Often, people overlook the importance of wills because they do not believe it is necessary for their situation or they misunderstand how a will can greatly benefit loved ones left behind.
Planning for long-term care with a dementia diagnosis
Your mother's dementia diagnosis is tough on your family, but as a result, certain things need addressing. For starters, her long-term care plan needs revisiting and revising. While she is only in the first stage of the disease, it may start progressing quickly.
