Hi there,

Last week we busted five common estate planning myths. This week, let's tackle one of the hardest questions parents face: who would raise your kids?

It's uncomfortable to think about. But if you don't decide, a judge will, and that judge has never met your family.

Here's what you need to know about naming a guardian in Missouri and Illinois.

Most parents pick the person they're closest to. But that's not always the best choice. You want someone who shares your parenting values, lives in a stable situation, and is genuinely willing and able to take on the responsibility.

Ask yourself: who would your kids feel most comfortable with? That answer might surprise you.

A verbal agreement means nothing in court. Your guardian nomination needs to be in your will. Both Missouri and Illinois require it to be in a properly executed legal document.

If you don't have a will yet, this is the single biggest reason to get one, especially if your kids are young.

Life changes. Your first-choice guardian might move overseas, get divorced, or develop health issues. Always name at least one alternate guardian so the court has a clear second option.

Don't surprise someone by naming them as your children's guardian. Have an honest conversation first. Talk about your expectations, your kids' routines, and any financial support you'd provide through life insurance or trusts.

Your one action item this week:

If you haven't named a guardian yet, write down your top two choices. Then call or text the first one this week and start the conversation. It doesn't have to be perfect. It just has to happen.

Not sure what to say? I created a free Guardian Conversation Script to help. It walks you through exactly how to bring up the topic, what to cover, and how to handle a "no."

Download the Guardian Conversation Script here

Need help making it official? Reply to this email and I'll point you in the right direction.

To protecting what matters most,

Zach Hunsinger
Hunsinger Law Group, LLC
St. Louis & Chicago