What if your kids hate your spouse?

By Beth Newcomb

If you’re the head of a mixed-family household, additional estate planning is the key to keeping the peace should you pass, says Linda Nabors, who, along with her husband, Jay, is an attorney with Nabors and Nabors, the Strongsville-based law firm where John J. Urban is of counsel.

“In cases where there is a second wife or step-children, it’s vital to have your estate documents in place so your assets can be distributed as you wish,” Linda says. “It’s never a good idea to assume that because you told your biological children you wanted them to share their inheritance with their step-siblings that will be the case. Tensions can run high after the death of a loved one, and people can change.”

Linda details the story of a man who died, leaving a second wife and biological children behind. The way his will was set up, his children were in a position to sell his home and his wife was only able to remain there for a year.

“She had to move so the house could be sold, per the terms of the will,” Linda says. “Needless to say, her life was turned upside down.”

Committed partnerships are another touchy area.

“There is no such thing as common law marriage anymore, so your partner won’t have the same rights that your heirs do unless you put language in your will specifying what your partner should inherit,” Linda explains.

To help keep the peace in your family, Linda and Jay can create the necessary documents to ensure those near and dear to you are appropriately cared for when you pass.

Nabors & Nabors offers Mimi readers a free legal services consultation in person or on the phone, with services at a contracted discount rate. Mention this story when you schedule an appointment. House calls and select evening appointments available.

To reach the attorneys at Nabors & Nabors Ltd., with John J. Urban of counsel, call 440-846-0000, ext. 227. The offices are located at 11221 Pearl Road, in Strongsville. Visit the website at Nabors-Law.com.