Estate Planning Lawyer
Though most types of pets have a shorter lifespan than humans, a pet owner may pass away and leave their beloved animal behind. You can rely on an estate planning lawyer to understand the significant concerns a pet owner may have about the care of their animal after their passing. For many owners, the solution is to establish a trust for their pet that will come into effect after they pass away, or if they become incapacitated and unable to care for the animal.
What is an animal trust?
Establishing an animal trust with the help of an estate planning lawyer O’Fallon, MO trusts is similar to the process of establishing a trust that does not include arrangements for one’s animals. In fact, it can be advantageous to create one trust that includes care directives that take into account your pets. An attorney can sit down with you to make all of your final arrangements at the same time, which can provide you with peace of mind that all of your final wishes can be honored.
What is the difference between a trust and a will?
Generally speaking, a will specifies your final wishes that will go into effect after your passing. A trust can do that as well, but it can also specify what should happen to your assets and your pets if you become incapacitated. For example, if you are the victim of a car accident that you survive, but your injuries leave you unable to care for your animal or allow you to care for yourself, a trust can dictate what should happen with your pet. There are two types of trusts: revocable and irrevocable. Either one can include instructions for the care of your animal and reserve funds from your estate for their care. However, one may be more appropriate for your needs than the other. Visit with an estate planning lawyer from our firm who can review your situation, needs, and concerns to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
What to Include in a Pet Trust
With the help of an estate planning lawyer, your unique set of circumstances can be considered in arranging for the care of your animal after your passing. Some of the instructions you may wish to include are:
The name and contact information of the person who will care for your animal. Be sure to confirm with the person that they will be up to this task. Should that person be unavailable or unable to care for your pet at the time of your passing, you might include a secondary person.
The amount of money should be set aside from your estate to handle the animal’s care.
The animal’s current veterinarian or veterinarian clinic. You may also wish to specify that the animal should undergo a checkup and receive any needed medical care immediately after your passing.
Find out More About How You Can Protect Your Pet After Your Passing
For many people, their pets are an extension of their family and so it’s important to make sure they are cared for if they outlive their human owner. Attorneys respect the bond between pets and their humans and want to help you make sure your animal can be well cared for if the unexpected happens. Call an attorney today to schedule a meeting with an estate planning lawyer who can help you make arrangements that will give you the peace of mind you need.
Thank you to our friends and contributors at Legacy Law Center for their knowledge about pet trusts and estate planning.
