Most of us don't really start getting serious about legally documenting our "wishes" in the form of a living will or trust until "the dependents" are born: Our Children. They are, in fact, your most precious asset. Wouldn't you want to protect them? More important than the decision of who gets the house, the real estate, the money, etc. is the decision as to who you would like to name as legal guardians to your minor children if something unfortunate were to happen. Fighting between family members or close relatives could easily be avoided if your wishes for your children were explicitly written into a living will/trust.

Two years ago, my husband and I finally got our act together and searched for a lawyer who could prepare our living will/trust. The attorney's physical location as well as cost were the initial considerations during our estate planning research. However, after meeting with the attorney we ultimately engaged, her "lawyer-friendly" personality and the unique "kids factor" that she added to her estate planning product won us over. Admittedly, her services did not come cheap. You could probably have someone draw up your estate plan for half the cost that we paid. However, the intangible benefits that came with engaging a Personal Family Lawyer™ was worth the cost!

In a nutshell, for all parents, give your kids the ultimate protection and make sure they're taken care of according to your wishes by completing your estate plan. My husband and I feel more assured knowing that we've given our two precious blessings this gift. By the way, don't forget to revisit and review your living wills/trusts periodically. Life is ever-changing!