ARTICLE 2

Something For Newlyweds To Think About

What is one of the most precious possessions in a marriage? One more precious than diamonds or gold? It is the children the couple may be blessed with along the way! So, therefore, regardless of financial wherewithal, age, or sophistication, every set of loving parents would agree that the nurturing and care of their minor children is paramount and uppermost in their minds and in their hearts.

So, it is essential for all married couples to make wills wherein they agree who shall have the privilege and responsibility of raising their children if something should happen to both parents; for example in a common disaster or while traveling by air, ship or train. We can see how a great deal of personal hassle, emotional pain and wasted time and money for lawyers, court costs and expenses could be eliminated if both parents could agree in advance as to whom they want to be guardians, custodians and trustees for benefit of any children of the marriage.

This arrangement is also loving as far as the grandparents and other relatives are concerned. It takes any potential family friction off the table when both families are able to see that their late loved ones were in complete agreement. Naturally they would all respect the late parents’ unanimous directions on the subject of custody and financial arrangements for benefit of the children of the marriage.

It should be noted that this subject may also be appropriately addressed in a prenuptial agreement with regard to not only existing children of the parties, but also to those born after the marriage. Whether the vehicle for resolution of this highly important, yet emotionally charged issue is a will, or a prenuptial agreement, adopted children can be covered as well.

So consult your attorney for advice on this marital concern at an early date.

May I wish all the readers of the L I Bride every happiness and success in your upcoming marriage.

GARY F. SMITH
Attorney at Law
330 Motor Pkwy. • Suite 300
Hauppauge, New York 11788
(631) 952-5555 • (631) 952-5600 fax • gsmith@garyfsmithesq.com