None of us can predict with certainty how long we’ll be here; it’s important to plan for the unexpected.  If you don’t have a legal will, you are essentially giving the government control over the distribution of your assets, which may not be in line with your wishes.

In addition to distributing property, you may also want to give directions for difficult medical decisions when you’re unable to communicate, for the guardianship of children or pets, and who and how to handle your finances if you’re incapacitated.  If you want to have a say in these affairs, there’s no better time than now.