Notes from November 5, 2019

As an Attorney and Planner Jessica Johnson works with her clients in preparing for the future. She suggested that the holidays can be a good time to gather family members together to review plans for the issues that will be faced by all of us in retirement including health directives and estate matters. Family meetings serve as communication of the directives and provides a family roadmap while enhancing relationships and building trust through conversation about “unapproachable topics”. Families need to select a venue that facilitates discussion and relevant documents should be prepared to help guide parties through the plan. The meeting should start with the family values and reason for the meeting. Ms Johnson suggests introducing advisors (accountant, attorney and financial planner) to educate the parties. Roles should be identified and a schedule for ongoing communication should be discussed as plans change making communication very important.