Estate planning is undergoing a significant transformation, with LegalShield’s recent survey uncovering noteworthy changes in how Americans approach preparing Wills. The survey highlights a significant 20% bump in the number of prepared Wills compared to last year, signaling a growing awareness of the importance of legacy planning across generations.
The survey also sheds light on preferences among different generations:
Many Americans continue to value direct legal interaction, but a significant number are recognizing the benefits of online tools. LegalShield is at the forefront of this hybrid approach, offering a range of services from online resources to phone consultations. “There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to estate planning,” says Ashley Higginbotham, supervising attorney at Deming Parker LLC. “Direct client interaction allows us to craft Wills that truly reflect individual wishes and provide clarity for families.”
In today’s digital age, one concerning trend is the lack of attention for digital assets in estate planning. The survey reveals that 58% of respondents haven’t addressed what happens to their digital assets after they’re gone. Even more shocking, nearly a quarter of respondents haven’t even updated their Will in up to three years.
“Digital assets are rapidly becoming a crucial part of most estates,” Higginbotham warns. “Without clear instructions, families may struggle to access or manage a loved one’s online presence after they’re gone.”
With a network of provider law firms handling approximately 50,000 Wills annually, LegalShield is well-positioned to meet the diverse needs and preferences of Americans across generations. LegalShield offers a comprehensive suite of services, including online tools, phone consultations, and in-person meetings, to ensure that estate planning is accessible, personalized and effective.With increasing numbers of Americans recognizing the importance of having a Will, LegalShield is here to help every step of the way. Whether through traditional legal advice, online resources, or a combination of both, the key is to take proactive steps in managing your estate.
A mistake in your Will could leave your loved ones facing legal issues during one of the hardest moments in their lives. We’ll explain how to update a Will, and why it’s best to do so with legal help.
Estate settlement involves managing a deceased person's finances. As the executor, you'll pay their legal debts and distribute their assets to the people they named.
Instead of going through court, your home can pass directly to the people you’ve chosen.
A Trust is like a bridge between a person and their estate. A Trust can make it easier for your family to manage your estate when the time comes.
A probate estate includes everything the deceased owned in their name alone without a named beneficiary. The cost of probate only applies to assets that require court supervision to transfer.
Deed transfer is an important part of the process, but it depends on the deed’s specifics. Let’s look at some ways property might transfer to help you understand what to expect.
