Younger Americans Are Planning For The Future

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One of the most important documents you will ever need is a will, but more than half of all Americans will pass away without one. Younger people tend to believe that they do not need to worry about a will until they are older, but having these documents in place can help if something unexpected happens, including having your wishes known to medical personnel if you should become incapacitated and unable to voice those decisions yourself. Members of our legal subscription plans get wills, living wills, trusts, and advance directives included with their membership at no additional cost, and more and more younger people are interested in making sure their final wishes are legally enforceable if needed; in fact, in the last year, the percentage of Millennials and Gen Z who have created a will has gone up from 18% to 27%. The consequences from not having a will can be overwhelming for your family. Here's what happens when you die without a will:

You Have No Control Over Your Assets

Your house, vehicles, jewelry, art, furniture, family photos, and other valuables will be divided up by your state's probate court.

You Have No Say In What Happens To Minor Children

If you are expecting or have children, it is critical that you have a legally enforceable will. If you do not have one, where your children live and who takes care of them will be decided by the state.

You Have No Say in What Happens to Your Pets

If you do not have a will that includes who should care for your pets and how they will be cared for, again, a court will decide, and that can include someone appointed by the court, and that could include a shelter.

You Have No Say in What Happens to Your Money

Without a will, the state will decide what happens to any savings you may have. Any charities that you support will probably not be considered.

If you're ready to make your will and have your decisions created into a legally-enforceable document in your state, here are a few tips to get you started:

• If you have children, decide who you want to care for them in a worst-case scenario. Who could realistically care for them? Talk with those who you think might be good candidates for taking care of your minor children and make sure that they are willing to do so.

• Where would you like your belongings to go? Who inherits your home, your vehicles, and other assets? What about family heirlooms?

• Who would be the best choice to care for your pets? What do you want to happen to your remaining money? Parents usually earmark money to care for their children, but those without kids may want to designate a favorite charity, an alma mater, or some other worthy cause.

• One thing that many people don't think about in this age of technology is what should happen to your public profiles on social media or even your computer files and hard drives. A will is a way you can designate someone you trust to take care of your digital persona if you are unable to.

• Consult with a lawyer. Handwritten or typed wills are generally not legally enforceable, so talking with a lawyer who is familiar with probate laws in your state to go over your plan and your situation is a great choice to make sure that not only are your wishes documented, but that your state will recognize them legally. As a member of our legal subscription plans, you can start creating your will the first day you're a member and have your attorney review everything in a matter of days.

Death isn't a fun topic to think about, but planning ahead for the future can alleviate stress on your family and loved ones at a difficult time. Learn more about all the benefits of membership in our legal subscription plans, or sign up today to get started on your will.

Legal Advice for Pet Owners

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Pets bring us so much joy and fun, and, occasionally, headaches, too. While most problems with pets are no big deal, there are a few times where problems with pets can lead to legal issues. If you need help with a legal issue surrounding your pet, as a member of our legal subscription plans, you can call your provider attorney and get advice, get answers to an unlimited number of questions, and more, all for one low, monthly fee. In the meantime, here are some tips for pet owners:

Maintain Control of Your Pet At All Times

You may be legally responsible for damage caused by your pet, especially if your pet has a history of biting humans, attacking other pets, or having an aggressive demeanor. You may also be responsible if your pet damages property, including scratching or denting cars.

Follow Your Local Pet Laws

Know if your locality has a leash law and follow it. Make sure you understand the requirements of any leash laws, any required pet tags or licenses, and inoculations. Complying with local pet laws can help you avoid citations and/or appearances in court.

Understand Your Local Pet Nuisance Laws

If there are pet nuisance laws where you live, it is important that you understand them and what they require of pet owners. Nuisance laws can include excessive noise, cleaning up after your pets, and making sure your pet doesn't dig or otherwise damage neighboring properties. By knowing and following these laws, you can avoid fines, court, and disputes with your neighbors.

Know Your Local Laws About Breeding

If you intend to breed your pets, make sure you know and understand the local laws about breeding. These laws can vary widely between localities so it is important to check into these laws, especially if you're moving to a new area.

Know Your Pet-Related Lease Terms

If you are renting a home or apartment, you should review the terms of your rental contract or lease in regards to your pets. Some terms included in leases and rental agreements regarding pets often include security deposits for pets, limits to the number of pets you can have on premises, limits on the weight of animals, restrictions on the type or kind of pets, and more. Make sure that you know these terms before you sign or before you adopt a pet. If you live where there is a homeowners' association, you may need to review the terms of that agreement, too, making sure you understand the rules and bylaws of the HOA in regards to pets.

Know What Your Pet Insurance Covers

Read through all the terms and conditions of your pet insurance policy to make sure that all your areas of concern are covered by your policy. Discuss your coverage with your vet and make sure that your policy covers your pet's issues and the costs associated with caring for your pet. Your provider attorney can also review your insurance policy and contracts at no additional fee as long as you're a member of our legal subscription plans.

When There's A Disagreement Involving Your Pet

Remain calm and stay rational during any disagreement about a pet, whether you're the pet owner or have been injured by someone else's pet. It is important to deal with the issue in a calm, civil manner as disputes involving pets can often become emotional and escalate quickly.

If you have questions or concerns about legal issues surrounding pet ownership, your provider attorney is available to answer your questions and give advice on an unlimited number of topics as long as you're a member. For one low, monthly fee, you can contact your attorney for advice on contracts, policies, and the law and put your mind at ease. Learn more about our legal subscription plans for families and individuals or sign up today!