Do you have specific wishes or plans related to a funeral or memorial? If so, your family may not know these plans unless it was discussed with them and documented in a place they can find it.
It is a common misconception that the proper place for your final burial and funeral wishes is in your will. Many wills are not located, read or filed until days or weeks after the death. Setting up a memorial service, however, is a more immediate concern.
Your loved ones may find themselves arguing with one another or feeling so overwhelmed by grief and all of the emotions that come with the loss of a loved one, that they may not be able to arrive on a final decision for your funeral or burial. You need to identify in a separate document what kind of memorial service you want and whether you want to be cremated or buried.
Equally important to creating these documents is your decision to inform your family and friends about these wishes. You also need to give them copies of any relevant documents and tell them where this information can be found. Furthermore, if you have taken the step to purchase any advanced burial plots or cremation services, such as a deed to a cemetery plot, this information needs to be shared with important decision makers or actors in the handling of your estate.
A knowledgeable estate panning attorney can help you work through all of the major questions and concerns around the estate planning process. Set aside time to work with an estate planning lawyer and make sure to review your estate plan regularly. Contact our office now to learn more about drafting a full estate plan.