I would never recommend leaving a substantial inheritance directly to a minor child.

Not because the child shouldn’t inherit. Quite the opposite. If you are leaving money for a child, I want that inheritance to actually accomplish what you intended it to accomplish.

And simply naming a minor child as a beneficiary can create problems that most parents never see coming.

Then move-in day arrives, you haul everything up three flights of stairs, try not to comment on the size of the dorm room, give one last hug, and drive home wondering how that tiny person you once buckled into a car seat is suddenly living somewhere without you.

But there is one thing that probably isn't on the college packing list. Legal documents. And if your child is 18 or older, those documents may be considerably more important than the mini-fridge.

Most parents assume the answer is simple. Of course your adult children should serve as your Power of Attorney. Who else would you trust?

But when a medical emergency or cognitive decline suddenly forces someone to step in, families often discover that love and preparedness are not always the same thing.

At first, everyone may agree they want what is best for Mom or Dad. Then reality sets in.

When you hear the word “trust,” what comes to mind? For many North Carolina families, it conjures images of wealthy dynasties, sprawling estates, or celebrities with complex financial portfolios. But the reality is far different, and far more relevant. Trusts aren’t just for the rich. In fact, they’re one of the most practical, flexible, and protective tools available to everyday families in our state. Whether you’re a parent with young children, a homeowner, or someone caring for aging parents, a trust could be the key to protecting your legacy and simplifying life for your loved ones.