Protecting Your Legacy: Why Black and Brown Families Need a Will

By Janell Williams

Every family deserves to protect its assets and secure its financial future. Studies show that Black and Brown families are less likely to have a legally documented will, leading to unnecessary legal battles, lost property and disrupted generational wealth. Understanding the importance of estate planning is the first step in ensuring your family’s security.

Why a Will is Essential:
A will is a legal document that outlines how your assets—including homes, bank accounts and personal belongings—should be distributed when you die. Without one, the state decides who inherits your property, which may not align with your wishes. This can lead to lengthy probate court cases, disputes among family members, and even the loss of generational wealth.

According to Columbus Attorney Shevon S. Thomas II, there are three main components to think about when it comes to a will:

1. Power of Attorney- If you're incapacitated, this is the person that you want to handle all of your affairs

2. Living Will- Your medical decisions that you can't necessarily make because you're in a coma or another circumstance will be at this person's discretion.
3. Last Will & Testament- Basically, who gets your stuff and what happens after you die (cremation, burial, location of remains, etc.)

The Impact of Not Having a Will:

• Property Loss: Many families lose homes and land due to unclear ownership when a loved one passes away without a will. This can result in forced sales or legal disputes.
• Family Disputes: Without a clear legal directive, disagreements among relatives can lead to fractured relationships and prolonged court battles.
• Financial Burdens: Probate court proceedings can be costly and time-consuming, creating stress and financial strain at a time when the family is grieving.

Common Barriers and Myths:
Many in Black and Brown communities avoid estate planning due to misconceptions such as:

• "I don’t own enough assets to need a will."
• "Making a will is expensive and complicated."
• "I’m too young to think about a will."

The truth is that wills are necessary regardless of wealth, can be created affordably, and are vital at any stage of adulthood.

"It's definitely good to get a will as soon as you start owning things. You want to look at how you want to set up the future for your spouse or kids," said Attorney Shevon Thomas II.

How to Get Started:

1. List Your Assets: Take inventory of your home, bank accounts, investments and personal valuables.
2. Decide on Beneficiaries: Choose who will inherit your assets and who will handle your estate.
3. Consult a Lawyer: Many legal aid organizations and community groups offer affordable or free will-drafting services.
4. Update Your Will Regularly: Life events such as marriage, the birth of a child, the unexpected death of a beneficiary, or property purchases should prompt updates to your will.

"Starting a will is a fairly easy process, the average cost begins around $200, and you can modify it at any time," Thomas said. "There is a term, per stirpes (pur STIR-pees), that covers the order of your beneficiaries for situations where you may not have a spouse or kids. It lists how you want your assets to be divided among your next of kin."

Creating a will is a powerful step toward securing your family’s future and preserving generational wealth. By taking action early, you ensure that your loved ones are protected and your legacy remains intact. Don’t wait—start planning now to keep what you’ve worked hard for in your family for generations to come.