Myth Busting: “I’ll Have Time to Do My Estate Plan Later”
Procrastination is one of the biggest obstacles to proper estate planning. Many people believe they can wait until “later”—after the kids are grown, after retirement, or when life feels less busy. Unfortunately, “later” often never arrives, and families are left dealing with stressful, expensive, and avoidable legal issues.
In this Myth Busting article, we’re tackling the common belief that there will always be time. The truth is clear: the best time to put an estate plan in place is before you need it.
Myth #1: “I’m Young and Healthy—There’s No Rush.”
It’s natural to feel like estate planning is something for older adults, but illness, accidents, and unexpected events can happen to anyone. Without a plan:
- Your loved ones may need to pursue a court-appointed conservatorship to manage your finances or healthcare.
- Assets may be distributed according to California’s intestate succession laws, which may not reflect your wishes.
- Family members may have to make difficult decisions without guidance.
Planning early isn’t pessimistic—it’s responsible.
Myth #2: “I Don’t Have Enough Assets to Justify an Estate Plan.”
Estate planning is not only about distributing wealth. It also covers:
- Who can make medical decisions for you.
- Who can manage your finances if you become incapacitated.
- Who will care for minor children.
- Whether your family must go through probate, which in California is time-consuming and costly.
Even a modest estate can create a significant burden if no legal foundation is in place. If you have a house or a child, you probably need an estate plan. You definitely need an estate plan if you have both.
Myth #3: “I’ll Just Get to It Later—It’s Not Urgent.”
Many people delay because they expect estate planning to be complicated. In reality, working with an experienced attorney simplifies the process and offers peace of mind. Consider:
- California’s probate process can take 24–36 months on average, even for straightforward estates.
- Families often face Court fees, unnecessary taxes and stress at an already difficult time.
- A properly drafted trust can help your loved ones avoid probate entirely and access assets quickly.
Taking action now prevents unnecessary hardship later.
Myth #4: “My Family Will Know What to Do.”
You may assume your family understands your wishes—but without a legally enforceable plan, a court may have to decide instead. This can lead to disagreements, confusion, and outcomes you never intended.
A clear estate plan:
- Identifies your beneficiaries
- Appoints trusted decision-makers
- Protects children and dependents
- Reduces the chance of conflict or litigation
Your family deserves clarity—not guessing.
The Truth: Estate Planning Is One of the Most Important Things You Can Do Today
An estate plan is more than a set of documents—it’s a way to protect your family, preserve your assets, and stay in control of your future. No matter your age, stage of life, or net worth, there is always more to lose by waiting than by planning ahead.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’ve been putting off your estate plan, now is the perfect time to take the first step. At Herbert Law Office, we make the process clear, approachable, and tailored to your needs.
Call us at (661) 273-9007 to schedule your free consultation today and let us help you put the right protections in place—for yourself and for the people you care about.