Peace of Mind Starts Here: Why an Estate Plan Is the Smartest Way to Stay in Control When Life is a Rollercoaster
If the last few years have taught us anything, it’s this: life doesn’t always stick to the plan. Markets wobble. Health surprises us. Even our best-laid personal and financial goals can take a detour. But amid all the uncertainty, one thing you can take charge of is your estate plan.
Now, before you click away thinking this is just about wills and dusty paperwork—stick with me. This is actually about freedom, clarity, and yes—control.
What Is Estate Planning, Really?
Let’s break it down. Estate planning isn’t just about who gets your stuff when you're gone (although that’s part of it). It’s about making sure you get to decide what happens with your assets, your health care, and your legacy—rather than leaving those decisions to the state of Connecticut, or worse, to chance.
Whether you live in Westport, Wilton, Darien, or Norwalk, a solid estate plan gives you and your family a roadmap in uncertain times. Think of it like setting your GPS before a long drive (or, maybe you remember the days of printing out Map Quest directions, or even better, getting the route from AAA?). You could wing it—but do you really want to? Map-reading and anything cartography-related are probably my weakest suits (okay, among others), but luckily strategic planning is where I shine.
Why Now? Because Control Matters More Than Ever
Uncertainty is the backdrop of modern life. Markets shift. Families evolve. Illness can come out of nowhere. Without a clear plan in place, these changes can lead to confusion, stress, and unintended consequences.
But when you have a living trust, a well-drafted will, power of attorney documents, and health care directives—all the essentials of a modern estate plan—you’re not just preparing for “someday.” You’re creating structure. You’re making sure your voice is heard. And that kind of control? It’s priceless. It’s a gift to your family. You’re making the decisions, so they don’t have to.
What Happens Without an Estate Plan?
If you pass away without a plan in Connecticut, your estate goes through probate and assets are distributed pursuant to Connecticut’s intestacy laws. Married with kids? Your estate gets shared between your wife and kids according to a statutory formula. Separated but not divorced? Your ex likely still inherits. Regardless of your specific situation, probate is public, time-consuming, and expensive. Worse, it’s impersonal. The courts follow a legal formula that may have nothing to do with your real wishes or your unique family situation. Probate (in Connecticut) is not the medusa some may have you believe she is, but it’s also no walk in the park.
With a comprehensive estate plan—crafted with an experienced Fairfield County estate planning attorney —you decide:
- Who inherits what (and when)
- Who manages your affairs if you're incapacitated
- Who makes health care decisions on your behalf
- How to minimize estate taxes and avoid probate entirely
That’s the power of control. That’s peace of mind.
Estate Planning Is for Everyone, Not Just the Ultra-Wealthy
A common myth I hear? “Estate planning is just for rich people.”
Not true.
If you own a home, have savings or retirement accounts, or care about what happens to your children or loved ones—you need an estate plan. I work with families across Wiltpn, Westport, Stamford, Ridgefield, New Canaan, Redding, and beyond, helping them protect what matters most.
And yes, I have expertise in high-net-worth estate planning—strategies that preserve wealth, reduce tax exposure, and ensure multi-generational asset protection. But I’m just as passionate about helping folks take that first empowering step, no matter their net worth.
Working With an Estate Planning Lawyer in Fairfield County
Every family is different. That’s why I take the time to listen—to understand not just your financial picture, but your values, your hopes, and your worries.
I’m Elizabeth Roache, a Connecticut estate planning attorney, a passion for helping families, and a practice built on personal connection. I offer personalized estate plans that are easy to understand, legally airtight, and tailored to your life today and tomorrow.
If you’re in Westport, Darien, Wilton, Norwalk, New Canaan, Ridgefield, Stamford or anywhere nearby, I’d love to connect.
Let’s talk. A complimentary consultation is the easiest first step you’ll ever take toward true peace of mind. I’ll walk you through exactly what you need—and nothing you don’t. Schedule or contact me here, let’s get started!
