The next time you’re evaluating an estate plan, ask yourself these three questions: Is it inspirational? Is it aspirational? Does it say something special about someone special?
As estate planning professionals, our first questions are often, quite understandably focused on more practical, immediate considerations. (Is the plan complete? Is it legally enforceable? Etc.) An estate plan, however, can be – and should be – much more than that. When held up to the light, a solid, well-crafted estate plan should reflect both the mind and heart of your client – his or her values, priorities and dreams.
Is it inspirational?
Listen carefully to your client and you’ll start to catch the familiar refrains, the priorities, the things in life that matter most to them. As you then draft the various legal documents, prepare them in a way that calls upon the “better angels” in everyone involved – successors, beneficiaries, family and friends.
Is it aspirational?
Does the plan motivate others to accomplish more, achieve more? Your client may have a special charity, perhaps a passion for the environment or for a faith group they care about. Create provisions within the plan that will encourage the estate’s beneficiaries to build upon the client’s special projects or passions.
Does it say something special about someone special?
The estate planning language may well be legal, but the deeper meaning should be clear for all to see: This client is special. What he or she has to share is not merely a legacy of property and assets, but a legacy of principles and virtues as well.
I can’t think of any more rewarding enterprise than helping people fashion a plan and purpose bigger than themselves. Take the time to discover your client’s greatest hopes and dreams. Then let the estate plan carry those hopes and dreams forward, creating a legacy that will endure.
