The 5 Biggest Mistakes People Make Without an Estate Plan
Estate planning is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and legacy. Yet, many people delay or avoid it altogether—leaving their loved ones vulnerable to confusion, court battles, and unnecessary expenses. In this post, we’ll explore the five most common mistakes people make without an estate plan and how you can avoid them.
1. Not Having a Will or Trust
The biggest mistake is having no plan at all. Without a will or trust, the state decides how your assets are distributed, which may not align with your wishes.
2. Forgetting to Update Documents
Life changes—marriage, divorce, new children, or new property. If your estate plan isn’t updated regularly, it may not reflect your current situation.
3. Not Naming a Guardian for Children
Parents often overlook naming a legal guardian for their minor children. Without this, the courts will decide who cares for them.
4. Ignoring Powers of Attorney
Estate planning isn’t just about death—it’s also about what happens if you’re incapacitated. Without powers of attorney, your family may struggle to make financial or healthcare decisions on your behalf.
5. Thinking Estate Planning Is Only for the Wealthy
One of the biggest myths is that estate planning is only for those with large estates. In reality, everyone needs a plan, no matter the size of their assets.
How Sword & Shield Can Help
At Sword & Shield Estate Planning, we make it simple and affordable to create wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. Our goal is to give you peace of mind knowing your family will be cared for and your wishes honored.
Conclusion
Estate planning mistakes can be costly—not just financially, but emotionally for your loved ones. Don’t leave their future to chance. Start your estate plan today and secure the legacy you’ve worked so hard to build.
Ready to avoid costly mistakes? Contact Sword & Shield Estate Planning today and protect your family’s future with confidence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Your Questions, Answered Clearly
What is estate planning, and why do I need it?
Estate planning is the process of preparing legal documents that protect your assets, outline your wishes, and ensure your loved ones are cared for when you’re gone. Without it, the state decides how your property is divided, often creating delays, extra costs, and stress for your family.
How is Sword & Shield different from a traditional law firm?
Unlike most law firms, we specialize in state-specific, compliant estate planning documents through advanced legal software. This allows us to provide the same quality documents attorneys draft — but at a fraction of the cost.
Do I really need an attorney to create my estate plan?
No. You don’t always need to hire an attorney for a legally valid estate plan. Our service prepares state-compliant documents tailored to your unique needs. We also provide clear guidance so you understand what you’re signing and how it works.
What documents are included in an estate plan?
A typical plan may include:
- A Living Trust (if needed)
-A Last Will & Testament
- - Power of Attorney
- Advance Healthcare Directive / Living Will
- Guardianship Designations (for minor children)
We’ll help determine which documents fit your situation.
How much does it cost compared to hiring a lawyer?
Our approach saves clients 50% or more compared to traditional law firms. You’ll receive the same high-quality legal documents, but without the steep hourly attorney fees.
Can I update my estate plan later if my situation changes?
Yes! Life changes — and your estate plan should too. If you move to a new state, have a child, get married, or experience any other major life event, we can help you update your documents quickly and affordably.
How do I get started?
It’s simple: click the “Get Started Now” button, and you’ll be guided step-by-step through the process. Our team ensures your documents are accurate, compliant, and ready to protect what matters most.
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