When individuals and couples living in New York begin the estate planning process, they are often concerned about what will happen to their real estate, investments, and savings after they die. While these are all important issues, it is also critical that estate planning address nonfinancial concerns, such as child guardianship, end-of-life planning, family pets and the distribution of personal effects.
It is often these so-called “personal” issues that can actually create the most conflict within families. If people become completely incapacitated before they die and are unable to communicate their wishes, family members may find themselves in conflict regarding whether the loved one should be kept on life support. Without a comprehensive estate plan, there may also be confusion about that individual’s desires regarding burial, cremation, or organ donating.
