We weren’t prepared, emotionally or legally.
I work in an industry that’s on most people’s to-do list. “To Do: Get a will.” The scary part is that it’s last on the list. People assume they have years to get their affairs in order. And I know personally that’s not true; when I was 17 I was in a car crash, breaking my legs and arms in half and fracturing my hips. I was 1 year away from the doctors not being able to communicate with my parents unless I had a power of attorney in place.
Most days, I do find myself living like it might be my last. Glass-half-empty people might call it PTSD; but I’m actually a glass-half-full guy so I actually enjoy the visceral Carpe Diem attitude towards things.
Unless you’ve had a near-death experience, you probably fit into the category that doesn’t prioritize getting a will or healthcare proxies in place. COVID put a microscope on all of us, bringing everyone face-to-face with the inescapable anxiety of “how long do I (or mom, or dad) really have?”
Covid taught me that it’s worth it to move estate planning up to the top of your to do list. Pray nothing unexpected happens, but get a plan in place just in case it does.
My firm does estate planning on flat fee in 4-weeks flat: $3,000 for unmarried people, $4,500 or $6,500 for married individuals depending on your circumstances (estate tax planning, blended families, etc.).
Download our free resources about what estate planning really is, or our guidebook that will help you see how an estate plan will fit into your life. I’ll meet with you for a free 1-hour Zoom to go over a proposed estate plan, and then you decide whether or not to pay.
A strong legal plan protects more than assets. It protects the people you care about most. Bielski Chapman, Ltd. helps individuals, couples and families across Chicago create thoughtful strategies that reduce risk, prevent conflict, and build long-term security. Schedule your consultation today.
