Blended Families and Estate Planning: Don’t Let Love Turn Into Legal War

Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of If You Don’t Plan, You Are Stupid!, estate planning attorney Andy Rosenberg dives deep into the complexities of planning for blended families. With multiple marriages, children from different relationships, and joint assets, it’s easy for unintended outcomes—like accidental disinheritance—to occur without proper planning. Andy explains the critical role of communication, the value of separate and joint trusts, and why avoiding do-it-yourself planning can save your family from conflict and costly mistakes. Whether you're in a second marriage or navigating shared parenting, this episode offers practical advice to ensure your estate plan is both fair and effective.   Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the complexities of blended family planning 02:10 – Defining what a “blended family” really means 04:20 – Why communication is the cornerstone of estate planning 07:50 – What can go wrong when everything is left to the surviving spouse 11:25 – A real client example: Five children from multiple relationships 15:40 – Using multiple trusts: His, hers, and joint 18:35 – Trusts explained: What they are and how they avoid probate 23:00 – Who controls the trust and when children can access it 26:10 – Guardrails in estate planning to prevent misuse 29:40 – DIY planning vs. hiring an experienced estate planning attorney 33:15 – How to find a trustworthy estate planning attorney 35:00 – The role of prenuptial and postnuptial agreements 38:45 – Can you create a plan that is fair for everyone? (Yes!) 41:00 – Final advice: Communicate and take action now   About the Show: If You Don’t Plan, You Are Stupid! is a podcast hosted by estate planning attorney Andy Rosenberg. Each episode helps Florida families better understand how to protect their legacy, minimize legal complications, and ensure smooth transitions for their loved ones. With clarity, humor, and expertise, Andy explains topics like probate, trusts, guardianships, and wills.