Establishing an estate plan is a critical part of safeguarding your assets and making sure they are passed on to the rightful heirs. However, when you have a complicated relationship or family dynamic, this process can be difficult to navigate. Fortunately, there are still ways to ensure that your wishes are respected and that your loved ones receive the assets you meant for them to have. Here’s what you need to know about estate planning when love and relationships within the family are complicated.

Understand Your Options

Everyone’s circumstances are different, so it’s important to do your research and understand which type of estate plan will best suit your needs, working with a Portland, Oregon estate planning lawyer to get your plan in place. For example, if there are children from multiple marriages or relationships, a trust is often recommended as it provides the greatest level of protection, oversight, and “fairness” in the administration process. Additionally, a trust can help protect your family from having to go through a probate or conservatorship, both of which are complicated legal proceedings.

Communicate Clearly With Loved Ones

When relationships become complicated due to divorce, remarriage, or other issues, it's important to communicate clearly with all involved parties about how your estate plan will be implemented. Establishing clear expectations upfront helps ensure that everyone involved understands their roles and responsibilities related to managing an estate after death or incapacity occurs. It's especially critical for those who have adult children from previous marriages or relationships; communicating openly with them about their inheritance rights ensures that they feel respected and valued as part of the family unit even if they do not live together day-to-day.

Most Importantly... Get Help!

Establishing an effective estate plan doesn't need to be stressful—even when love and relationships become complicated due to divorce or remarriage. With proper guidance and preparation, you can create a comprehensive plan that meets both your needs and your loved ones’needs in case anything ever happens to you. Contact us if we can help you take the next steps in creating a plan that offers your family protection and peace of mind.

If you want to get started on your estate plan, read about our estate planning services and schedule an appointment.

To your family's health + happiness.

~Candice N. Aiston