Some attorneys do not realize that estate planning encompasses more than just a Will. Assets pass at death in many different ways, whether it is by joint ownership or beneficiary designation. The failure to coordinate those structures with the overall plan outlined in the Will can lead to unintended distributions.

Financial planners sometimes fail to realize that good estate planning can support their planning efforts for their clients. For example, significant retirement savings will not serve someone well in a period of incapacity if they do not have a suitable power of attorney. Becoming more involved in the estate planning process will deepen a planner’s client relationships and lead to better retention rates.

People sometimes rely too much on other people and social media for planning ideas. Unfortunately, estate and financial planning can be as complicated as medical services. A doctor’s treatment for one patient is highly individualized and usually not suitable for others (at least without investigation). It’s important to become an educated consumer, but also to heed the advice of a trusted professional regarding your specific needs.

I believe that people tend to overidentify with their chosen profession, and it dominates their biography (and it is often the least interesting part of us). More than anything else, I am a husband and a proud father of five. My wife and I have a beautifully blended family, and we have successfully helped launch four adult children into the world. Our parenting skills have been tested more when it comes to our two dogs, Penny and Butters.

I was born just outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, but I do consider Alabama to be my home. However, one of my main passions in life (second to my wife of course) are the Philadelphia Eagles. We also value our faith life in our family, and my wife and I are members of both Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Hoover and The Star Church in Eastlake.

I enjoy reading, running and have participated in many races around the country. For over twenty years I have volunteered at a camp for individuals with special needs. I love “Special Camp”, and I rarely miss an opportunity to serve that organization and those wonderful campers. Finally, I find simple joy in meeting with a variety of people, most frequently in local coffee shops.

I believe it is important to understand a person’s professional worldview when considering whether to work with them or even spend your time talking to them. In my experience as an estate planner, I feel that there are three core tenets that will lead to better planning for life’s transitional moments:

Assemble A Team:

In order to properly navigate any legal or financial issue, it is important to have a good team of advisors. The financial world is just too complicated today and it can be dangerous to navigate it alone. Similar to the medical profession, specialization is important because we will benefit from engaging subject matter experts on law, investments and tax. Whether you believe in the Bible or not, it contains ancient wisdom based on human experience. Proverbs tells us that “[p]lans fail for lack of counsel, but with man advisors they succeed.” Proverbs 15:22.

Go Deep:

I believe that most professional advisors do not provide the appropriate level of depth required for exceptional client service. Most clients want to believe that the world is simpler than it is in reality and they “just want the answer.” Clear lines make us feel safer and secure, but the reality is that most decisions have several factors (which are often in conflict). Another thing that can make clients feel safe and secure is a knowledgeable advisor that does not create a false sense of security.

Never Stop Learning:

I have read that a majority of clients do not know the actual terms of their estate planning documents. In other words, the documents do something other than what they think. It’s important for clients to have a basic understanding of these concepts as they plan for life’s transitions. It helps to work with advisors who will teach, as opposed to tell. I also feel that advisors can benefit from a passion for learning beyond what may be mandated by their professional organizations. The world is constantly changing, and it requires some commitment to keep up with the times (and no, scrolling on social media is not continuing education).