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Hello again! Last week, we began discussing why it's crucial for LGBTQ+ families to invest in customized estate planning. Today, we'll cover two more reasons that highlight the importance of protecting your wishes and rights, even in a changing legal landscape.
If you missed last week's blog, make sure to catch up on Part 1 here: The Importance of Making Your Estate Plan Personal and Special for LGBTQ+ Relationships – Part 1
Let's dive in!
Most Traditional Lawyers Aren't Well Equipped to Serve LGBTQ+ Families
While LGBTQ+ relationships are gaining recognition, many traditional lawyers lack experience in effectively planning estates for LGBTQ+ clients. This is because LGBTQ+ families only gained the same rights as cisgender couples relatively recently, and some lawyers may not have had much exposure to LGBTQ+ planning during their careers.
Additionally, many LGBTQ+ families have yet to pursue estate planning due to a lack of awareness about its importance or accessibility. Shockingly, only 30% of American adults have an estate plan, and even fewer LGBTQ+ individuals fall within that percentage.
Unfortunately, some traditional lawyers are not comfortable working with LGBTQ+ families and may even refuse to take them on as clients. That's why it's vital to work with an attorney who not only understands LGBTQ+ needs but is genuinely passionate about getting to know your family and creating a plan that honors your unique journey and aspirations.
Keep Your Kids with the Ones They Love
In LGBTQ+ relationships, family extends beyond bloodlines and includes chosen family bonds filled with love and support. As parents, your children's well-being and protection are paramount. Therefore, it's crucial to have a plan in place that addresses who will be their legal guardian in the event something happens to you.
This becomes even more critical if your children are not biologically related to one parent or if you face resistance from family members who may not support your chosen guardian due to their relationship or sexual orientation. It's essential to name guardians who align with your beliefs and will honor your wishes for how you want your children to be raised.
By explicitly designating legal guardians in your estate plan, you ensure that your children will be cared for by the people you choose, regardless of biological ties or sexual orientation. This helps prevent potential disputes and ensures the continuity of care for your children, safeguarding them from being raised in a manner you may not agree with or being kept away from other important figures in their lives.
Choose a Lawyer Who Understands and Honors Your Unique Family
Finding a lawyer who genuinely understands your unique situation is key to ensuring your loved ones are taken care of by people who love and respect them, irrespective of biology or sexual orientation. You deserve a plan that celebrates your love, family, and future.
As your Personal Family Lawyer®, I am committed to putting my heart at the center of my practice. I take the time to truly understand you, your loved ones, and your specific needs, so we can not only protect your family and document your wishes but also create a lasting legacy and story that your loved ones will cherish for years to come.
This Pride Month, celebrate all that you are by protecting everything you love. To learn more about how I serve LGBTQ+ families differently, I invite you to schedule a free 15-minute discovery call using the link below.
Happy Pride Month! 🌈🎉
This article is a service of the Law Office of Tanika L. Finney, a Personal Family Lawyer® Firm. We don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love. That's why we offer a Family Wealth Planning Session™, during which you will get more financially organized than you’ve ever been before and make all the best choices for the people you love. You can begin by calling our office today to schedule a Family Wealth Planning Session.
The content is sourced from Personal Family Lawyer® for use by Personal Family Lawyer® firms, a source believed to be providing accurate information. This material was created for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as ERISA, tax, legal, or investment advice. If you are seeking legal advice specific to your needs, such advice services must be obtained on your own separate from this educational material.
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