Getting married is one of the most blissful times for a couple. Once the wedding festivities have completed most couples move on to the honeymoon stage of their marriage and forget that there is more to marriage than “that one sheet of paper.” In fact, there are several documents that newly married couples should start completing if they have not done so already to make sure their new family is fully prepared should something happen.
Estate Planning
The most important of the documents to execute is a will or a trust. Although there may not be several assets it is important to plan ahead and ensure that your wishes are carried out. Oftentimes, will packages incorporate advanced healthcare directives, financial and medical powers of attorney, which name the individual each spouse wants to have make their decisions should they be incapacitated for any reason.
Children
Furthermore, many married couples may have children upon entering the marriage. It is essential to appoint a guardian or conservator in your will to ensure your minor children are cared for by individuals of your choosing should something happen to one or both of you.
Your Home
Many newlyweds purchase their first home together prior to getting married. It is important to review the deeds to your home to ensure they are titled to both of you, which may have major tax advantages and help avoid probate should something happen to one spouse.
Beneficiaries
If one or both of you has been employed for some time there is a likelihood that 401(k) plans, IRA’s, life insurance policies, etc. exist, which have beneficiaries listed. Who do you want listed as the beneficiary, your spouse or someone else? These are important decisions and they should not be made lightly.
To learn more about estate planning please contact our office at or 248-773-5555 to set up a free consultation with an experienced attorney.
The attorney’s at Atlas Law, PLC are here to help. Our attorneys are experienced in helping individuals and families with estate planning and probate services. Our Detroit lawyers serve Metro Detroit and Ann Arbor, including Plymouth, Northville, Novi, Farmington, Farmington Hills and all of Oakland County.