Life is an amazing journey filled with cherished moments, laughter, and love. While it may be difficult to think about the end of this beautiful journey, it is crucial that we plan for the future to ensure that our legacy endures long after we are gone. A Last Will and Testament is not just a legal document or a piece of paper, at its core it’s a heartfelt expression of our deepest wishes, ensuring that the people and causes we care about most are taken care of, even when we're no longer there to do so ourselves. Today is the 1^st of August, which is National Make-A-Will Month, and it's a great day to explore the profound reasons why everyone should have a Last Will and Testament.

Although legal expertise is necessary to draft a comprehensive Will with all the necessary legal protections, provisions and contingencies, the act of creating a Will is one of love and responsibility towards our family, friends and community. It shows that we care deeply for their well-being and want to spare them from unnecessary burdens during a difficult time. By having a Will, we provide clear instructions on how our assets and belongings should be distributed, saving our loved ones from potential conflicts and uncertainty.

The passing of a loved one is a time of grief and vulnerability. Without a Last Will and Testament, family disputes may arise over the distribution of assets, leading to fractured relationships and long-lasting wounds. By having a Will, we can minimize the chance of misunderstandings and preserve the unity and love among family members.

As parents, our children's happiness and well-being are at the forefront of our minds. Creating a Will allows us to appoint a Guardian for our minor children, someone we trust wholeheartedly to raise them with the same love and values we’ve instilled in them. It is a testament to the lengths we would go to ensure our children are in safe hands, no matter what the future holds.

A Last Will and Testament is not only about distributing assets; it also allows us to leave a legacy of giving back to causes that hold a special place in our hearts. Through charitable bequests, we can support organizations and initiatives that have touched our lives, making a lasting impact on the world even after we’re gone.

Life is unpredictable, and none of us know what the future holds. By having a Will, we regain a sense of control over our lives, knowing that our wishes will be carried out as we envision. This peace of mind enables us to live our lives more fully, knowing that our loved ones will be taken care of according to our heartfelt intentions.

While it is natural to avoid conversations about death, planning for the inevitable is an act of love and compassion towards ourselves and those we care about most. A Last Will and Testament is not about the material possessions we leave behind; it is about the enduring legacy of love and care that we instill in the lives of our loved ones and the causes we hold dear. Let us embrace the opportunity to create a lasting testament of our love, responsibility, and compassion. Together, we can ensure that our legacy extends beyond our years, inspiring generations to come with the same kindness and generosity that define our lives.

Don't wait for tomorrow; create your Last Will and Testament today, and let your love be felt for generations to come. Please contact the Law Offices of Lawrence Cohen if you have any questions or would like us to assist you with your estate planning.

- Larry