Everyone should have a will in place. For new parents, however, the importance of establishing a will becomes even more pronounced. Here, we will discuss several compelling reasons why now is an opportune time for new parents to create a will.
New Parents – Why Now Is A Good Time to Create a Will
Here are five big reasons why new parents should not delay in creating a will:
- Identify a preferred caregiver: A will and other appropriate documents let you nominate someone you trust to care for your children if a guardian is needed. The court makes the appointment under applicable law; your nomination does not override a surviving parent’s rights. Discuss the responsibility with the proposed guardian and identify a backup.
- Plan financial support: A will directs property that passes through your probate estate. A trust can provide continuing management for a child, while life insurance, retirement accounts and college savings arrangements need their own coordinated ownership and beneficiary decisions. Naming a minor directly may create administrative or court requirements.
- Reduce uncertainty: Clear documents and appropriate conversations can help family members understand your choices. No document guarantees that a dispute will never arise, but careful planning can address foreseeable questions about caregivers, money and responsibility.
- Share your wishes and values: Your will can contain legally effective property directions. A separate letter can also explain hopes for your children’s upbringing and preserve personal guidance. Those wishes can be helpful to caregivers even when they are not legally enforceable instructions.
- Choose a plan for probate property: Without an effective will, Florida’s intestacy rules determine who receives probate property. A valid will gives you a way to direct that property, subject to protections such as a spouse’s and minor children’s homestead rights. Property with an effective beneficiary designation or survivorship arrangement follows different rules.
Estate Planning Attorney
New parents, the time to estate plan is now. You may not be able to control the future, but you can put legal protections in place to help protect and promote your goals and preferences. Reach out to the team at Verras Law for assistance. Contact Verras Law today.
Sources: Florida Statutes § 744.3046; Florida Statutes § 732.4015.
Updated October 26, 2026.