When it comes to securing the future of your children, especially those under the age of 18, creating a will or establishing a trust is not just an option—it's a necessity. At Anderson Legal Services, PLLC, we understand that discussing what happens after you’re gone can be a sensitive topic, but it’s crucial for ensuring your children are cared for according to your wishes. Here, we'll explore how trust and guardianship designations can safeguard your children's future.

The Importance of Guardianship Designations

One of the most significant decisions you can make in your will is the appointment of a guardian for your minor children. This designation is crucial should you and the other parent become unavailable to care for your children. Without a clearly appointed guardian, the court will decide who will take care of your children, and this may not align with your preferences or your children’s best interests.

A guardian's role is comprehensive, encompassing both the personal care of your children and the management of their needs until they reach adulthood. When selecting a guardian, consider factors such as shared values, parenting style, the potential guardian’s relationship with your children, and their ability to manage this responsibility.

The Role of Trusts in Protecting Your Children’s Financial Future

While a will can specify a guardian, a trust can provide for your children financially, ensuring that your assets are used in a way that benefits them. By setting up a trust, you can:

• Control How and When Assets Are Distributed : A trust allows you to specify how your assets should be used — for example, education, healthcare, or general maintenance. More importantly, you can define milestones or ages at which your children will receive portions of their inheritance, preventing misuse of funds at an early age.
• Protect Your Estate from Probate : Unlike a will alone, a trust can bypass the often lengthy and public probate process. This means your children can access the assets they need more quickly and privately.
• Appoint a Trustee : Just as you appoint a guardian to look after your children’s day-to-day needs, you can appoint a trustee to manage and distribute your estate according to the trust’s terms. This person or institution can be instrumental in preserving your assets and ensuring they are used in your children’s best interest.

Why Work With Anderson Legal Services, PLLC?

Navigating the complexities of estate planning requires careful consideration and expertise. At Anderson Legal Services, PLLC, we are committed to providing our clients with personalized and sensitive legal guidance through every step of this critical process. We help you:

• Understand all your options when it comes to protecting your children.
• Draft clear, legally binding documents that reflect your wishes.
• Make informed decisions about guardians and trustees.

Getting Started

We recommend starting the process by thinking about who in your life would best serve as a guardian and trustee for your children. Consider discussing your plans with those you intend to involve to gauge their willingness and ability to take on these responsibilities.

Then, reach out to us at Anderson Legal Services, PLLC. Our skilled attorneys are ready to assist you in crafting an estate plan that meets your needs and provides peace of mind knowing your children will be well cared for, no matter what the future holds.



Securing your children’s future is perhaps one of the most significant steps you can take. Let us help you ensure your legacy and their well-being with thoughtful, thorough, and compassionate estate planning.