Figuring out how to leave your assets to your loved ones can be stressful and exciting at the same time. But if you’re like many who engage in the estate planning process, then you might be concerned that someone close to you will attempt to challenge your estate plan because they’re unhappy about what you’ve left for them. Fortunately, though, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of an estate challenge, which can put your mind at ease and better ensure that your assets will be distributed as you see fit.
If you’re worried about someone contesting your estate, then you need to be proactive in heading off challenges before they arise. Here are some ways that you can do that:
- Discuss your intentions with your loved ones so that everyone is clear on how you want to distribute your assets and their expectations are tempered.
- Create some distance between yourself and those who are set to inherit from you so that you don’t give the perception that there’s undue influence in play.
- Utilize a no contest clause so that your disgruntled loved one will lose their inheritance if you they choose to contest your estate plan and lose.
- Visit your doctor close in time to when you execute your estate plan documentation so that there’s evidence of your mental competency and your ability to knowingly make a cohesive estate plan.
Develop a sound estate plan that meets your needs
There may be other ways to reduce the risk of an estate challenge and meet your estate planning goals. You just have to be aware of your options and act on them in a legally sound fashion. If that has you on edge, don’t worry. There are several ways you can wrap yourself in support to protect your interests. Please continue to read our blog to learn more.