Common Estate Planning Myths (and the Truth Every Minnesota Family Should Know)
Estate planning is one of the most misunderstood areas of law. In our Minnesota estate planning practice, we regularly hear the same myths that prevent families from protecting themselves and their loved ones. Below are the most common misconceptions—and the reality behind them.
At Lauren Pevehouse Law, we help Minnesota individuals and families create legally sound estate plans that eliminate uncertainty and provide peace of mind.
Myth #1: “I’m not wealthy enough to need an estate plan.”
Reality: Estate planning is not about wealth—it’s about control and protection.
If you:
Own a home
Have retirement accounts or savings
Have children
Want someone you trust making medical and financial decisions
…then you need an estate plan. Without one, Minnesota law—not you—decides what happens to your assets, your health care, and even your children.
How Lauren Pevehouse Law helps: We create customized estate plans for everyday Minnesota families, not just high-net-worth individuals.
Myth #2: “Everything automatically goes to my spouse.”
Reality: Not always. If you die without a Will (intestate), Minnesota statutes control distribution. Assets may be divided between your spouse and children—or even other relatives—depending on the situation. This can create financial strain and legal complications for your family.
How we help: We ensure your wishes are clearly documented so your spouse and loved ones are protected exactly as you intend.
Myth #3: “Having a Will avoids probate.”
Reality: A Will does the opposite—it sends your estate directly into probate court. Probate can be time-consuming, expensive, and public. The only reliable ways to avoid probate are through Trust planning and proper beneficiary designations.
How we help: Lauren Pevehouse Law designs Trust-based estate plans that allow your assets to transfer smoothly and privately without court involvement.
Myth #4: “I made a Will years ago—I’m covered.”
Reality: Estate plans must evolve with your life. Changes such as:
Marriage or divorce
Birth of children
Moving to Minnesota
Buying property
Changes in finances
can make older documents outdated—or even legally ineffective.
How we help: We review and update Minnesota estate plans to ensure they reflect your current wishes and comply with Minnesota law.
Why Working with a Minnesota Estate Planning Attorney Matters
DIY estate planning often leads to:
Invalid or unenforceable documents
Probate problems
Missed tax and asset protection opportunities
Family disputes
Minnesota estate laws are specific and constantly changing. Working with an experienced attorney ensures your plan is legally sound and tailored to your family.
Lauren Pevehouse Law provides thoughtful, personalized estate planning for Minnesota families with a clear focus on protection, probate avoidance, and peace of mind.
Protect Your Family Before a Crisis Happens
Don’t wait for an emergency to discover gaps in your estate plan. Whether you’re starting from scratch or updating old documents, Lauren Pevehouse Law can help you put a comprehensive Minnesota estate plan in place.
👉 Schedule your estate planning consultation today and take control of your future.
