Planning for your child's future

If you have a child, you need to have a will and perhaps other estate planning documents as well.  At the very least, you will likely want to have a will as that is the only way to nominate a guardian for your minor child.  Keep in mind that even if you are divorced or separated from your child's other parent, he or she would be the guardian regardless of who you would choose for a guardian.  Many clients are surprised to learn this, assuming that if they have custody, they will be able to choose the guardian.  You can, however, choose who would manage your child's property inherited from you.  For a good starting point on creating an estate plan, see this article from MSN.  Many attorneys offer free or flat fee consultations for estate planning services, it is well worth your time and money to have an estate plan.