LEGALLY SPEAKING
Life Can Change in an Instant
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By Bruce Iden, Esquire
n 2018, after a string of mass shootings, I first addressed in this column the reality that life does not always go as planned. It was after a shooting in the Delta baggage claim area at Fort Lauderdale International Airport where five people were killed. While I did not personally know any of the victims, this event and the Parkland massacre several months later were right in our own backyards. Our entire community watched in shock as horrific details were reported, and we all collectively grieved with the families who lost loved ones. Recent mass killings in Atlanta and Boulder remind us once again that life can change in the blink of an eye. What all of these tragedies and others, whether at a church in Charleston or a country music festival in Las Vegas, have in common is that left behind were devastated families, friends, and communities. People, just living their lives, had no idea their souls would be leaving this earth. We can all agree that life does not always go the way you expect. Plans put off until later, may never happen. Life events often trigger thoughts about your own mortality sooner rather than later. The reality of our COVID-19 world has motivated many to act. As an attorney specializing in wills and trusts, I see firsthand what may happen to a family after an unexpected death. During a very emotional time, a grieving family is left to clean up the legal and financial mess left behind. The majority of my estate planning practice focuses on helping clients prospectively prepare to take care of their family and assets after they are gone. I offer counsel regarding the best estate plan for their unique needs. As a caring and responsible parent or spouse, there are things you should think about and take care of. Now. Let’s start with your minor children. Have you thought about who will care for them if you are not around? What about financial support? Do you know if you have the right amount, and the right type, of life insurance for your particular family needs? What about college? How will that be paid for? Do you look after or support your parents? What will happen to them if you are not around? Now, think for a moment about what your final wishes for your family might be. How do you want to leave assets to your heirs? Are there charities you wish to support? Who will inherit your business and real estate? There are so many questions to consider. Perhaps the lesson to be learned from tragedy is to always try to live a good life full of kindness and gratitude, and to remember to love and cherish our families and friends every day. The reality is that we do not know what the future holds. Life can change in an instant. What are you waiting for?
⊲ Bruce Iden earned his J.D. from George Washington University
National Law Center and his L.L.M in taxation from the University of Miami School of Law. He has been practicing in the areas of estate planning, real estate and business law for over 30 years. For more information, or to schedule a consultation with Mr. Iden, contact Iden Law Offices at 954-885-0085.
36 / Our City Weston / May 2021 / OurCityMedia.com
