His brother did not welcome him, though the father assured him that his inheritance was still in tact. This parable provides an insight into some potential family problems in estate planning. It illustrates the problem of distributing too much money to children, before they have learned the responsibility of managing property. It also illustrates problems in interpersonal relationships that may arise, though the effects are not directly upon other members of the family. It is so important to keep our perspective.
People are more important than dollars.
Let us share with you some thoughts for consideration. Consider naming an individual who does not have a vested financial interest in your property, or a bank trust department, to serve as personal representative of your estate or trustee of any trust that you establish. Many family problems come about because a family member placed in this position of responsibility had to make decisions that were not acceptable to or popular with other family members. Division of household goods and personal effects . Sale of the family home .