Legacy Protected. Family Secured.

January 10, 2026•3 min read

Estate planning isn’t about death—it’s about protection, control, and peace of mind. In this in-depth conversation, R. Kenner French and estate planning attorney Bob Bluhm break down why putting off estate planning can quietly cost families hundreds of thousands—or even millions—of dollars. Most people say “I’ll do it later,” but as Bob explains, delay often leads to probate nightmares, family conflict, and irreversible financial loss for heirs. Estate planning, when done correctly, is one of the most loving and responsible decisions a person can make.

A major misconception addressed in the discussion is estate taxes. While only about 0.2% of estates actually owe federal estate taxes—thanks to the $15 million individual and $30 million married exemption indexed to inflation—probate affects nearly everyone. Probate is a slow, expensive, public court process designed to settle debts and distribute assets, often taking months, years, or even decades. Bob shares real-life cases where heirs were stuck in legal limbo, unable to sell or maintain inherited property, watching valuable assets deteriorate while waiting for probate to close.

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The conversation clearly explains the difference between a will and a trust, a question many people search for online. A will sends your estate directly into probate. A revocable living trust, on the other hand, avoids probate entirely. Assets held in a trust can be distributed quickly, privately, and without court involvement. Trusts also prevent disputes, protect privacy and eliminate the need for multiple probates if property exists in multiple states. Simply put: a trust gives clarity, speed, and control when your family needs it most.

Beyond asset distribution, Bob emphasizes that a complete estate plan goes far beyond a trust. It includes guardianship designations for minor children, medical powers of attorney, HIPAA waivers, living wills , durable powers of attorney, digital asset instructions, and personal property distribution lists. These documents protect you not only after death, but while you are alive—especially in cases of incapacity, dementia, or medical emergencies. Without them, courts or the state may decide who raises your children, manages your finances, or makes life-support decisions for you.

Perhaps the most powerful takeaway is the emotional relief estate planning provides. Bob and Kenner both share personal stories highlighting the “psychic peace” that comes from knowing everything is handled. One can sleep better, travel freely, and live fully, knowing family members won’t be left confused, burdened, or fighting one another. Estate planning is framed not as a legal task, but as an act of love and leadership—a way to protect your family, preserve harmony, and maintain dignity through every stage of life.

Bottom line: Estate planning isn’t for the wealthy—it’s for anyone who cares about their family, their wishes, and their legacy. Planning early avoids chaos later. As this conversation makes clear, the cost of not planning is almost always far greater than the cost of doing it right.

Takeaways

• Estate planning is essential for protecting your family.

• Probate can be a lengthy and costly process.

• A will leads to probate, while a trust avoids it.

• Living trusts can expedite asset distribution.

• Designating guardians for minor children is crucial.

• Living wills clarify medical wishes in emergencies.

• Durable powers of attorney are vital for decision-making.

• Planning your estate is an act of love for your family.

• Peace of mind comes from having a solid estate plan.

• The estate planning process becomes easier with discussion.

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