Warrick & Boyn—trusted counselors to individuals and families throughout Michiana—understands that estate planning should be viewed as the ultimate act of love and responsibility, not a service marketed and motivated by fear. August is National Make-A-Will Month, and we hope you will let us help you plan a future for your children, grandchildren, and loved ones!
By Ashli L. Hunsberger
Associate Attorney, Warrick & Boyn, LLP
Summer has a way of slowing us down—at least a little. Between family vacations, backyard cookouts, trips to the lake, and evenings spent with friends, August reminds us to appreciate the people who matter most.
It’s also an ideal time to think about how we can protect them.
That’s why August is recognized as National Make-A-Will Month, a reminder that one of the most important things we can do for our loved ones isn’t something we leave behind after we’re gone—it’s the peace of mind we give them today.
More Than a Legal Document
Many people believe wills are only for retirees or those with significant wealth.
The truth is, if you’re an adult with children, a home, savings, personal belongings, or simply people you care about, a will is one of the most important legal documents you can have.
A will allows you—not the courts—to decide how your assets will be distributed. It lets you name a guardian for your minor children, identify the person you trust to carry out your wishes, and reduce uncertainty during what is often one of the most difficult times a family can experience.
Without a will, those decisions may be made according to state law instead of your personal wishes.
Planning Is an Act of Caring
No one enjoys thinking about life’s “what ifs.” It’s easy to put estate planning off for another month or another year.
Creating a will isn’t about expecting the worst, though. Rather, it’s about loving the people in your life enough to prepare for the unexpected.
Having a thoughtful plan in place can spare your family unnecessary stress, confusion, delays, and conflict. It allows them to focus on one another instead of navigating complicated legal questions during an already emotional time.
Every Family Is Different
There’s no one-size-fits-all estate plan.
A young couple with children has different needs than empty nesters. A business owner faces different considerations than someone planning for retirement. Blended families, family farms, vacation homes, and closely held businesses all deserve careful planning tailored to their unique circumstances.
More than just completing a few forms, good estate planning requires an attorney to take the time to get to know you, understand your goals and priorities, and create a plan that reflects your life and the legacy you want to leave behind.
Start the Conversation
At Warrick & Boyn, we’ve been helping individuals, families, and businesses throughout Michiana plan for the future for generations. Whether you’re creating your first will, updating an existing estate plan, or wondering whether it’s time to establish a trust, we’re here to answer your questions and help you make informed decisions.
If you’ve been meaning to create a will—or if it’s been several years since you’ve reviewed one—consider National Make-A-Will Month to be the encouragement you’ve been waiting for.
A little planning today can provide lasting peace of mind tomorrow.
If you’d like to learn more about wills, trusts, or estate planning, we invite you to contact Warrick & Boyn. We’d be honored to help you protect the people and the future you’ve worked so hard to build.
From all of us at Warrick & Boyn, we wish you and your family a safe, relaxing, and wonderful remainder of the summer. We hope you’re making memories across Michiana that will last a lifetime—and when you’re ready, we’re here to help you protect them.