In 2021, we lost Aaron T. Beck, the father of cognitive behavioral therapy, who identified patterns of negative thinking in his patients, and as an estate planning attorney, I often encounter similar fatalistic traits in clients’ loved ones, which require self-recognition and treatment.

Several times a year, I receive urgent calls for estate planning help, often involving loved ones in the ICU, highlighting the dangers of procrastination and the necessity of timely legal preparation for health crises and asset distribution.

I usually discourage procrastination, but after losing a spouse, it’s important to avoid making major decisions immediately, such as selling a home or changing financial advisors, while relying on trusted professionals to navigate necessary tasks during the emotional and difficult grieving period.

Any parent knows how different their children can be, even when raised in the same household, and while parents love their children equally, treating them equally in estate plans is not always straightforward.

Nearly fifteen years ago, after a frustrating day at work, I was hit by a car while biking, which reminded me of life’s unpredictability and the importance of always striving for big goals. This experience emphasizes having something to live for at any age to keep death at bay and maintain life’s purpose.

Understand asset ownership and beneficiary designations in estate planning to avoid unintended consequences.

I’ve reviewed many estate plans in my 30+ years of practice. It is not uncommon for a new client to say that another attorney assured