This becomes more complicated when a child's spouse has children from another marriage. Gone but not forgotten Maxwell once had a client whose father left a sizable inheritance in trust. When Maxwell met the client, she was in her 60s and desperately seeking a way to withdraw some of the money. The trustees wouldn't budge. Maxwell says her client's father apparently believed that women weren't capable of handling money.
Some parents use similar restrictions to prevent spouses or partners from sharing in an inheritance.
Think carefully before taking such a step, Maxwell advises. It's real hard to admit you need to let go of this money. Realize that fair doesn't always mean equal. Del. If one child had a learning disability, for example, you probably spent more time helping that child with his schoolwork. Lau suggests applying the same tactic when it comes to planning your estate.