Your Legacy, Your Plan: Why Estate Planning Matters Now
What Happens If You Don’t Plan Ahead?
Many people put off estate planning, thinking they’ll “get to it someday.” But what happens if you never do?
The reality is this: if you don’t have an estate plan, the state has one for you. Your assets, guardianship of your children, and even healthcare decisions may end up in the hands of the court.
As an attorney with nearly five years of family law experience, I’ve seen how stressful and costly this can be for families. That’s why I expanded into estate planning, to help people take control before it’s too late.
Intestate Succession: The State’s Plan for You
When someone dies without a will or estate plan, their estate is handled under intestate succession laws. In North Carolina, this means:
The court decides who inherits your property based on a strict legal formula.
If you have children but no will, a judge decides who will raise them.
Your assets may be divided in ways you would not have chosen.
For example: if you’re married with children, your spouse may not automatically inherit everything. Instead, the estate could be split between your spouse and children, sometimes causing confusion or hardship.
The Hidden Costs of Not Having a Plan
Dying without an estate plan doesn’t just create uncertainty — it creates unnecessary costs and delays.
Here’s what your family may face:
Probate Court Delays: The process can take months or even years.
Higher Expenses: Court fees and attorney costs eat away at the estate.
Family Disputes: Without clear instructions, disagreements are common.
Stress and Uncertainty: Loved ones are left to guess your wishes during an already painful time.
All of this can be avoided with a clear, customized estate plan.
Estate Planning Protects Your Loved Ones
An estate plan is more than just documents, it’s a way of caring for the people who matter most.
With a proper plan, you can:
Decide who inherits your assets.
Name guardians for your children.
Appoint someone you trust to manage finances or healthcare if you can’t.
Reduce costs and delays for your family.
Protect family relationships by removing uncertainty.
Estate planning gives your loved ones the gift of clarity and security.
Why DIY Isn’t Enough
It’s possible to find will templates or online planning kits, but these often fail to comply with state law or cover unique family needs.
An estate planning attorney ensures that:
Your documents are legally valid in North Carolina.
Your plan accounts for your specific situation.
You’re protected from common mistakes that could invalidate your wishes.
With my background in family law, I understand the complexities of family dynamics and how to create plans that address them with care and precision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t have much property?
You still need a plan. Estate planning isn’t just about money — it also covers guardianship and healthcare decisions.
What if my family knows what I want?
Verbal instructions aren’t legally binding. Only written, signed documents carry legal weight.
Is it ever too late to create an estate plan?
No. But waiting increases the risk of unexpected complications. The best time to start is now.
Don’t Leave It Up to the State
If you don’t create an estate plan, the state will create one for you, but it won’t reflect your wishes. Protect your family from unnecessary stress, conflict, and costs by planning ahead.
Ready to take control of your future? Book a consultation with Melenni Balbach today and start building an estate plan that protects your family.
