In 2013, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 130,557 people died from “unintentional injuries.” In other words, 130,557 people got up and started about a normal day. They were heading to work or the grocery store, climbing a ladder to fix a roof. Something happened, a drunk driver, a broken rung on a ladder or an act of God – and they never saw another sunrise.
Most of those people had families. Someone – a lot of someone’s – answered the door to find a policeman standing there with a grim expression. In a minute or two, someone yelled, “Nooooooo” and started to scream and cry. Life as they knew it had ended.
With a Will…
Of the 130,557 people whose lives abruptly ended, statistically 57,445 of those people had a will. Assets could be passed on as intended. Most importantly, the guardianship of the children was prearranged. Everything could proceed with as little hassle for the heirs as possible. Trusts are often used to safeguard important assets and have money designated for certain expenses. (While you love your teen, if he or she received a large chunk of money, would it be spent on college or a brand new sports car?)
Without a Will…
On the other hand, 73,112 people did not have wills when they died. While still grieving and in shock, the heirs will be confronted with one legal hassle after another. It may take years to settle everything. If children are orphaned, the court will decide who should be the guardian. It’s possible that siblings could be separated. Even if cousin Julie had always been considered the perfect “parent,” greedy brother Charles could well convince the court that he was the best person to take the kids and control their money.
Making a will requires only a fraction of the time and expense that heirs face if there is no will. More critically, the most important issues, such as the guardianship of the children, may be left to the discretion of an overworked judge. It’s difficult to face these issues, but a wills attorney in Lawrence, KS will understand your concerns. The legal firm of John R. Hooge, in Ottawa, KS, has experienced wills attorneys in Lawrence, KS who can discuss the best options for the protection of your family. Browse our website to learn more and schedule a consultation.
