When it comes to the estate planning process, deciding which family members will receive your assets and property after you pass away is a very important task. Although most people who are planning the distribution of their estates choose to give a sizable proportion of their assets to their minor or adult children, this process may not be as simple or as problem-free as you might think.

Every family has its own unique history and dynamics, and as a result, distributing equal shares of the estate to each child might not be the best solution. Due to other financial, familial, or emotional circumstances, there may be a particular child or children who you might think deserves more or less than their siblings.

If you think that dividing your estate equally among your children is not the best plan for your family, there are many different solutions you can employ to distribute your assets and property however you see fit. By seeking the advice of a qualified estate planning attorney, you can ensure that the tools and strategies you are using are the best way to make the right choice in what could be a difficult situation.

For example, your estate planning attorney can help you decide whether – and how – to broach the subject of the unequal distribution of assets with your children or other family members who will be impacted by the decision. Although each family’s situation is unique, many estate planning experts recommend convening a family meeting to discuss the plan and provide a general overview of the distribution of assets well in advance. This strategy helps minimize the element of surprise and avoid the prospect of tension and conflict in the family after you pass away.

Still, in other scenarios, it may be more beneficial to avoid this type of meeting altogether, particularly if there is already resentment and animosity among the family ranks. Once you have determined the best strategy, your estate planning attorney can handle the steps that will need to be taken to make your plan legally binding.

Legacy APC, A Trusts & Estates Law Firm is a member of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys.

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