May was National Etiquette Month, and the goal is to encourage all people to act with consideration, respect, and honesty. Etiquette can also play a role in estate planning. A well-crafted estate plan ensures that your wishes are respected.
Good manners and decorum can help minimize potential conflicts and disputes that may arise among family members. This involves communicating openly and honestly with family members about your plan and considering their feelings and opinions. Showing respect and sensitivity can prevent future potential legal challenges that could arise from disagreements. The following are some ways that you can bolster your estate plan by incorporating the key elements of etiquette.
Consideration. An estate plan can create a sense of stability and calm in times of loss or uncertainty. If you do not leave detailed instructions for the type of medical care you want, you will be putting those you love most in the position of being mind readers. They will have to do their best to figure out what you would have wanted. A well-crafted estate plan shows consideration for your loved ones by preventing confusion about what to do and helping them avoid the pressure to make rushed, uninformed choices.
Additionally, you can customize a plan that provides for your loved ones in a unique way that takes into consideration your loved one’s personal circumstances. They can find solace in the love and consideration you showed them by ensuring that your estate plan was not just a one-size-fits-all document.
Respect. Estate planning makes it easier for your loved ones to respect your wishes because they know exactly what you want. Trust-based estate plans can respect your and your loved ones’ right to privacy by keeping private matters out of the public eye. Without a comprehensive trust-based estate plan, your estate may need to go through a court in a proceeding called probate. This means that your choices become visible to the public.
Honesty. You should communicate your wishes for end-of-life care to your loved ones. While creating an advance directive document like a healthcare power of attorney is important, it is equally essential to have open and honest conversations with your loved ones about your wishes. These conversations can be difficult, but they can provide clarity and peace of mind for everyone involved.
By crafting an estate plan that is considerate of one’s loved ones, respectful of privacy, and honest about wishes for care and end-of-life decisions, you can ensure that your wishes are carried out in the most respectful and dignified manner possible. If you are interested in learning more about our estate planning process or updating your existing plan, please schedule a meeting with us.