Congratulations to New Parents in the Lehigh Valley: Why Estate Planning Matters Now More Than Ever

First and foremost, congratulations on the arrival of your little bundle of joy! The journey of parenthood is undoubtedly one of life’s most precious and rewarding experiences. As you embark on this new chapter filled with joy, love, and endless cuddles, there is another aspect of your lives that deserves attention: estate planning.

While discussing topics like wills, trusts, and guardianship may not be as exciting as picking out baby names or decorating the nursery, it is a crucial step to ensure the well-being and security of your growing family. Here is why having an estate plan is crucial:

Protecting Your Child’s Future

As parents, your primary concern is the well-being of your child. Estate planning allows you to outline your wishes regarding the care and financial support of your child in the event of your passing. By establishing guardianship provisions in your will, you can designate a trusted individual to raise your child according to your values and beliefs.

Securing Assets for Your Family

Parenthood brings with it financial responsibilities. An estate plan helps you organize and protect your assets, ensuring they are distributed according to your wishes. Whether it is your home, savings, sentimental belongings, having a clear plan in place minimized confusion and potential disputes among family members. Additionally, an estate plan enables you the opportunity to provide for your new bundle of joy if you unexpectantly pass away.

Planning for the Unexpected

Life is unpredictable. Estate planning includes provisions for incapacity planning, such as powers of attorney and healthcare directives. These documents designate trusted individuals to make financial and medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so yourself.

Peace of Mind

Parenthood can be overwhelming, but having an estate plan offers invaluable peace of mind. Knowing you have taken steps to protect your loved ones and provide for their future allows you to focus on enjoying precious moments with your growing family.

Now is the perfect time to prioritize estate planning and safeguard your family’s future. Whether you need guidance on wills, trusts, or guardianships, we are ready to assist you.

Once again, congratulations on this incredible milestone! May your journey into parenthood be filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

About the Author:

Bill Hutcheson works with clients to ensure that their wishes are carried out after their passing. His experience includes drafting wills, powers of attorney, and living wills. Bill is keen on preparing a comprehensive estate plan that is custom-tailored for each client’s own unique situation, which he achieves through various non-probate planning tools. He often draws upon his experience and knowledge as an investment professional prior to his legal career to understand the non-probate instruments his clients readily have at their disposal in preparing a comprehensive estate plan. In addition to Bill’s guidance in estate planning, he also has significant experience in administering estates upon the decedent’s passing. Bill steers Executors and Administrators through the labyrinth of state and local statutes related to the administration process. Regularly, Bill ensures the estate’s assets are properly distributed, debts are paid, and taxes are filed. Bill and his team focus heavily on the timeliness of proper filings required by an estate’s Executors, Administrators, and Trustees, as well as ensuring they meet all of their fiduciary duties and standards. Lastly, when disputes arise amongst an estate’s stakeholders, Bill defends and/or pursues the rights of his respective clients’ positions related to the estate in question.