Summer is a time for relaxation, travel, and making memories with loved ones. But while you’re booking vacations or enjoying backyard barbecues, it’s also the perfect time to reflect on something just as important, your estate plan.

Life tends to slow down a bit in the summer, making it an ideal time to tackle the important (but often postponed) task of getting your affairs in order. Whether you’re creating a plan for the first time or updating an existing one, summertime offers the space and clarity to make thoughtful decisions about your future.

Why Summer Is the Right Time to Revisit Your Estate Plan

1. Life Changes Happen in Every Season
   Have you recently gotten married? Had a baby? Bought a home? Any of these life events—common during the summer—should trigger a review of your estate plan. Keeping your documents current ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected.

2. Travel Reminds Us of the Unexpected
   As exciting as summer vacations are, they can also be a sobering reminder of how quickly things can change. Having powers of attorney, a living will, and a comprehensive estate plan in place gives you peace of mind before you hit the road (or the skies).

3. Family Time Encourages Conversations
   Summer often brings families together, whether for reunions, holidays, or casual gatherings. These moments can naturally lead to open, thoughtful conversations about legacy, long-term goals, and how you want to support the next generation.

4. It’s a Season of Preparation
   Just as you prepare your home for summer with checklists and maintenance, you can take the same proactive approach with your estate. Organize your documents, review your beneficiary designations, and make sure everything aligns with your current wishes.

What to Review or Set Up This Summer

• Last Will and Testament

• Revocable Living Trust 

• Powers of Attorney (financial and medical)

• Living Will/Advance Directive

• Guardianship nominations for minor children

• Beneficiary designations on retirement accounts, insurance policies, and more

• Digital asset plan (think passwords, online accounts, and data)

A Summer Investment in Your Peace of Mind

Estate planning may not sound like the most exciting summer activity, but it’s one of the most meaningful. Taking a few hours now to create or update your plan can spare your loved one’s stress and uncertainty in the future.

This summer, give yourself the gift of peace of mind. Spend your days enjoying the sunshine, knowing your plan is in place and your loved ones are protected.

Need Help Getting Started?
The Davis Schilken, PC, team is here to make the estate planning process simple, thoughtful, and customized to your life. Whether you prefer to meet in person at one of our two locations (DTC or Lakewood) or virtually, we’ll help you build a plan that brings clarity and confidence to your future. Give our office a call today to schedule a no obligation meeting with one of our skilled attorneys (303)670-9855.

Let this summer be the season you finally check “estate planning” off your to-do list!