Part of the estate planning process necessarily involves difficult conversations and difficult decisions. One topic that many individuals can be hesitant to discuss is the “disposition of remains” document. While sometimes unpleasant to talk about, this document can be a key part of your estate plan that requires careful care and consideration. Additionally, estate planning lawyers can provide you with some eloquent and less-awkward ways of bringing up otherwise difficult conversations. Moreover, at the end of the day, even if a conversation is uncomfortable, it may be critical to ensuring your wishes are honored.
What is the Disposition of Remains Document?
A disposition of remains lays out what you want to happen with your body after your passing. You can dictate whether you want to be buried or cremated, as well as any specific requests about the process.
What Does the Disposition of Remains Entail?
One essential part of the disposition of remains is choosing an individual, or an agent, that will handle your remains. Choosing an agent is a delicate process, as you want it to be someone that you trust to carry out your wishes accurately. If you decide not to choose an agent, your “next of kin” will be the person to decide what happens with your body – this would be your surviving spouse, or in the alternative any adult children, parents, or siblings that you have left behind.
What Are Some Benefits of a Disposition of Remains?
The disposition of remains allows you to have control over what happens with your remains after your death. Without it, you will have no say in the process, and the grieving process for your loved ones could end up becoming more complicated by the additional decision that needs to be made. An additional benefit is that if you change your mind about who you want to select as your agent, you can switch that person out for another individual at any point in your life. The disposition of remains is thus flexible enough to allow for you to carefully think through how you want your remains to be handled.
If you would like to talk about adding the disposition of remains document to your estate planning process, the best thing you can do is speak with an attorney that is experienced in the field. With the right help on your side, you can navigate the process as seamlessly and easily as possible.
Do You Have an Estate Planning Attorney in Texas?
At McCulloch & Miller, we hear again and again from our clients how relieved they are to have a team of experts as they navigate the estate planning process in Texas. Our firm is committed to providing thoughtful, thorough care, because we are committed to serving you. For a consultation with a member of our team, give us a call today at (713) 333-8900. You can also fill out our online form to tell us about your circumstances and have an attorney reach back out to you.