I recently lost a friend. He was too young to die. But that does not stop it from happening. He was a second career attorney, changing paths in his 50’s because he knew that he could do more for people in the role of counselor. Though he was able to begin that destiny, it came to an abrupt halt. He was diagnosed with stomach cancer four months ago, and though he fought valiantly, in the end, the disease and its complications were too much.
We knew each other only four short years, but because of a common struggle (law school), we had forged a bond. I considered him a friend, and even a good friend. When I heard about his passing (on Facebook), and read what others were saying about him, I cried. And I don’t cry.
I don’t know what I was crying about more – losing a friend and colleague, or knowing that it could happen to me – and what would happen to my family! I really don’t know if the tears came from grief or fear (most likely both)…
I hope he was prepared. I hope he spent those last months fighting the disease with all his might, and spending time with his wife and children. I hope he didn’t start estate planning too late – I hope he did it well before so that he could focus on his loved ones during his last months.
I have a plan in place. I think I am prepared. But I am using my friend’s passing as a catalyst to review my plan with my wife and with my family so that we all know whether we are truly prepared. Having our planning in place will allow us to concentrate on each other in those terrible times, and not have to worry about anything else. That time should be a time for reflection and cherished moments.
I became an estate planning attorney to be able to help people prepare for these terrible circumstances. But I cannot make anyone implement a plan. I can only share with them (if they come to see me) the risks and consequences of leaving everything to chance.
Take the time to have your plan reviewed. Make sure everything is how it needs to be.
To schedule a free consultation, contact our office at 888.222.1328.
Contributed by MH Estate Planning Attorney James P. Plitz
About Morris Hall:
At Morris Hall, we have focused our legal practice on estate planning for over 40 years. Along with estate planning, our attorneys help clients and their families with matters of probate, trust administration, wills, power of attorneys, business planning, succession planning, legacy planning, charitable gifting and other important legal aspects. We also have divisions in financial, real estate and accounting to help you incorporate all of your planning together, ensuring that everything works perfectly for your needs and situation. Our Arizona offices are located in Phoenix, Mesa, Scottsdale, Cave Creek, Tucson, Prescott, Flagstaff and Arrowhead. Contact us today at 888.222.1328 to schedule an appointment!
This blog should be used for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader and should not be construed as legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney in your community who can assess the specifics of your situation.
This blog should be used for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship with any reader and should not be construed as legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney in your community who can assess the specifics of your situation.
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