Once you have executed your estate planning documents, it is important to store them somewhere safe but still accessible. You will want to store your power of attorney documents and any advance directives in a place that your loved ones can locate easily in the event something happens to you. It is also wise to keep a copy of your will with these papers. The best place to store an original copy of a Last Will and Testament is a safe deposit box, however, you will want to be sure that someone else has access to the box as well. In the event that your safe deposit box is inaccessible to anyone but yourself, your loved ones may have to file a Motion to Open Safe Deposit Box and Examine Papers. Attendance at a hearing would be required to obtain a signed Order allowing them entry to your safe deposit box. This would delay further action in resolving your estate and will cost your loved ones more time and money. For more information on creating an estate plan that’s right for you, please contact us to schedule a consultation today.
