A sudden or unexpected passing can be hard on everyone from friends to family. This situation becomes even more complicated when there are children involved. A child losing a parent, or parents, is a tragic event, but this tragedy is made worse if they are not protected and are left wondering what is going to happen to them. Getting a few documents signed and having a few hard discussions can ensure that children are kept safe in the event of an unexpected death.
Decide who gets custody
While the foster care system tries its hardest to protect children who have lost their parents, it is always better for a child to be put in the hands of someone they know and love. Deciding who will become the guardian of your child before something unexpected happens can ensure that your children are given the peace of mind that they will be looked after no matter what. It can be a difficult discussion to have with a friend or family member regarding child custody, but it is important that the person knows they will be given parental rights before a death occurs rather than after. If the child is old enough, it might also benefit them to know where they will end up in the event of a parent’s passing. Children who are old enough to understand the seriousness of the issue should be brought into the conversation and told where they will be going. This takes some of the fear out of their parents’ death and will give them some comfort.
Put money in a trust
While a Last Will and Testament is fine for most property, it can also be beneficial to know that children have money put aside that they can only access when they are old enough. This can keep them from abusing funds in the event of a passing. A Longmont trust lawyer can oversee the trust and ensure that the money is kept safe until a date specified by you. This can be a great way to keep a child’s college fund safe.
Plan your funeral in advance
Your children are likely the closest people to you in the entire world, this does not mean that they are prepared to plan your funeral. Children should not have to worry about this responsibility when they are mourning a parent. Planning out your funeral from the service to the burial will keep them from having to make hard decisions that they might not know about while also ensuring that you have the service you always envisioned. Other family members can make sure that your funeral goes according to plan and can ensure that your children do not have to take on more than they are able.