A common question for people executing their wills is "Should I tell my kids/siblings about this?". A simple sounding question, but a deeper look often brings up sensitive issues. What is the kids aren't being treated equally? What if you're not choosing a sibling as a guardian?
The New York Times addressed this very thing last week. One school of thought is to keep everything secret until the ultimate demise. Some people want to tell their kids where all of the original documents are located but nothing else. Finally, a small minority tell their kids everything- warts and all.
The vast majority of clients want the kids to know about the documents and that everything is equal. I'd say 90% of estate plans are in this pattern.
The article seems to recommend that early notification of unequal treatment of children lessens the likelihood of a successful will challenge. I think the challenge will inevitably come, but I'd say that the more documented testator intent, the better.
