Colorado Estate Planning And Estate Settlement Legal Blog

You worked hard or invested wisely to accumulate your personal wealth over the course of your adult life. From your first savings account to the real estates that you hold as a potential future investment, the assets you acquire have value both in that they mean something to you and that they represent a financial investment.

Typically, you will have paid tax on the income that you used to acquire those assets before also paying tax on the purchase of various items that you own. For many people, it seems highly unfair that those same assets would be subject to yet another tax after they're gone.

The aging process has a way of removing people's autonomy regarding everything from their living situation to their own finances. Individuals who were once capable of performing complex surgeries may no longer be able to dress themselves or choose where they live.

Cognitive decline is another major issue that affects the independence and decision-making authority of older adults. As you age, issues with memory or other important mental functions could give your family the ability to challenge your right to make your own medical decisions.

You might think of senior citizens when the term "estate planning," comes to mind but they aren't the only individuals who need to have their affairs in order. All adults should take the time to get things together, but it is especially important for parents of young children to have essential documentation for important decisions.

As you think about what might happen if you were to pass away, you can start to figure out some of the most important decisions you have to make. While your children are still minors and living at home, most of the things you will think about have to do with them.

If you go through all the trouble of creating an estate plan, you obviously have a legacy you wish to leave behind. Sadly, the beneficiaries of your last will and your family members may not respect your legacy as you intend it. Instead, they may have their own expectations and wishes regarding the assets you leave behind when you die.

Dissatisfied heirs and beneficiaries can challenge your estate plan or last will in court. They can also bring a challenge against the administrator or executor for your estate. Thankfully, there are certain steps that you can take during the estate planning process that will drastically reduce the potential of litigation during probate administration.