Facing the Inevitable: 5 Questions to Ask Before Meeting with an Estate Planning Attorney
For many people, the idea of estate planning is uncomfortable — not because it’s complicated, but because it forces us to confront our own mortality. Thinking about what happens after we’re gone, and how our loved ones will manage in our absence, can be deeply unsettling.
But much like scheduling a medical checkup, sitting down with an estate planning attorney is a proactive step toward peace of mind. Knowing your affairs are in order can provide a sense of relief — for both you and your loved ones.
Before your first meeting with an estate planning professional, take a moment to consider these often-overlooked but essential questions:
- What Happens to My Online Accounts?
In today’s digital world, our lives are spread across countless platforms — from bank accounts and investment apps to social media and cloud storage. Have you documented your usernames, passwords, and security codes in a secure place? And more importantly, have you designated someone to manage or close these accounts when you’re gone? Digital assets are a key part of modern estate planning and deserve serious consideration.
- What Are My Wishes If I Become Incapacitated?
It’s not easy to imagine becoming unable to make your own decisions due to a coma or severe brain injury — but it happens more often than we’d like to think. Do you want life support? For how long? If you haven’t made your wishes clear in a legal document, your loved ones could be left to make painful choices without guidance. A living will or healthcare directive can spare your family from uncertainty in an already difficult time.
- Who Will Care for My Pet?
If you have a beloved dog, cat, or other pet, have you thought about who will care for them after you’re gone? Without specific instructions, your pet could end up in a shelter or worse. Including your pets in your estate plan — possibly through a pet trust — ensures they’ll be safe and cared for.
- Are There Personal Relationships My Family Doesn’t Know About?
While it’s not the easiest topic to address, it’s important to consider whether any undisclosed relationships could cause confusion or conflict after your death. For example, a long-time affair or estranged relative could surface at your funeral, creating pain and tension. Transparency with your attorney allows them to help you plan ahead and minimize surprises for your family.
- Who Will Raise the Kids If We’re Both Gone?
If you’re a parent, you’ve probably thought about who would care for your children if something happened to you. But what if both you and your spouse passed away suddenly? It’s critical to name guardians in your estate plan — otherwise, the decision could fall to the courts, and not necessarily in line with your wishes.
Final Thoughts
Estate planning isn’t just about dividing assets — it’s about protecting your loved ones and making your wishes known. Taking time to answer these tough questions now can make all the difference later. When you’re ready to speak with an estate planning attorney, you’ll be prepared for a productive and meaningful conversation — and one step closer to true peace of mind.
These legal topics are provided to you by the President of QMC, Mark Easley. While QMC does not engage in the practice of law, Mr. Easley has practiced estate planning and elder law for over 30 years and is currently the principal at the Elder and Estate Planning Law Firm of St. Louis.