Every year, a few clients tell me the same thing: “We knew we needed to talk about Mom’s care… but we didn’t want to spoil the holiday.” Yet when something happened: a fall, a hospitalization, a sudden memory decline; they wished they had started those conversations earlier.

Imagine if you were in an accident today and couldn’t speak for yourself. Who would talk to the doctors for you? Who would pay your mortgage, handle your bank account, or make sure your bills were covered while you were in the hospital? Without a Healthcare Proxy and a Durable Power of Attorney, your family could be left waiting, arguing, or even going to court before anything gets done. These two documents make sure the right people can step in right away, protecting your health, your money, and your loved ones.

Blending a family is an act of love. But, when it comes to estate planning, it can also be a legal and emotional minefield. Without the right plan in place, assumptions, unspoken promises, and outdated documents can lead to painful surprises, strained relationships, and long-lasting legal battles. In North Carolina, where intestacy laws don’t account for stepchildren or second spouses the way many families assume, it’s especially important to be proactive.