Osama bin Laden and Estate Planning

Osama Bin Laden, the evil mastermind behind the September 11 attacks has been killed. Americans are jubilant feeling that finally justice has been served. The United States has been trying to capture or kill Osama Bin Laden for more than 15 years.  Before September 11, the US may have easily captured him, but since that time, he has been very elusive. Finally on May 1, he was found and killed.

News of the death brings a doubly great celebration at a time when there is so much economic gloom and so many doubts about America’s role in the world.  Finally something has gone right and we have something to celebrate. The president has been congratulated by even his opponents, and this success allows him to appear in charge and resolute.

This story could act as a cautionary tale on the importance of early preparation. We all know we need to get our personal planning in order.  It is easier when you are younger and feeling good.  Like capturing Bin Laden, too often we neglect our planning until after the disaster.  Instead of letting trouble slip by because we are prepared, we end up in crisis management.

Most times you overcome the crisis, but sometimes it isn’t possible.  All too often, I spend my days with the victims of an unexpected lawsuit, trying to help them save their assets.  Or I will spend time in the hospital during someone’s final hours trying to get them to sign something.  This isn’t how it should be.  Don’t put off your estate planning thinking it will be easier later.  The truth is it almost never is easier if you wait.