Start the Year with Peace of Mind

As the calendar flips to January, most of  us channel our energy into resolutions—organizing closets, cleaning up budgets, or finally starting that workout routine. But one of the most important “fresh start” goals should include creating or updating an estate plan.

Break the Procrastination Cycle

Estate planning is easy to put off—especially when life is busy or the topic feels overwhelming. But Kuhn & Kuhn founding partner and lawyer, Shea Kuhn, encourages people to lean into the “new year, new mindset” momentum. “Beginning of the year is just a perfect time,” she explains. “It’s a fresh start. Everyone knows they need something in place for when emergencies happen.” Being prepared for the inevitable is part of life. Plus, Kuhn points out, “You really should take stock of all your assets once a year; look at what you have invested and where, and what you want to change up.”

You don’t need to gather mountains of paperwork beforehand. Kuhn reassures clients that the first step is simply a conversation. “I tell people, don’t even bring anything initially. We just sit down and talk about what assets they have, what their family looks like, their concerns, needs, and what they’re trying to accomplish.

A lot of times they don’t even know yet—and that’s okay.” The best part? That first consultation is free.

Who needs a will

It’s not just for the wealthy or older clients. “Having children makes a will essential,” explains Kuhn. “The moment you become a parent you need to name guardians and establish clear plans for your kids—that’s crucial for any new family. The same goes for anyone who owns real estate.  Every adult, at any age, should at least have a will—even if they’re not ready for a trust yet.” 

Trusting their expertise 

As members of the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA), Kuhn & Kuhn belong to an elite national

network of leading Wills, Trusts and Probate attorneys dedicated to staying at the forefront of the field. “We’re always up to date,” she says. “As a boutique firm, our national academy gives us access to attorneys across the country—even internationally—which is a tremendous benefit for clients, especially those relocating from other states.”  

Planning for incapacity and understanding probate

Many people think estate planning only matters after death, but incapacity is often the greater risk. “A stroke, dementia—if you don’t have something in place, no one automatically has the authority to take care of you,” Kuhn explains. Estate planning protects you while you’re alive and shields your family from unnecessary stress. Through free seminars (see February dates on their website), her firm helps clients understand and correct common misconceptions—especially around probate. “All wills must go through the probate process, which in South Carolina can be burdensome. A big part of what we talk about during our free seminars is explaining how wills, trusts and probate work together, and how estate planning can help you.” 

Putting Family First

Thoughtful estate planning—whether it’s naming guardian for young children or creating protections for loved ones with disabilities, addiction issues, or unstable marriages—dramatically reduces confusion and conflict. “Everyone says their kids get along,” Kuhn says, “but that can change quickly once you’re not here and they’re fighting over money.” Planning ahead ensures your wishes are clear, your beneficiaries are protected, and the estate you’ve built genuinely supports your family.

A major tool in these situations is the special needs trust. “Many families have members who struggle with addiction, have disabilities, or simply can’t manage money safely. Inheriting assets outright can disqualify them from essential government programs, but a properly structured special needs trust preserves those benefits while still providing support.” It’s one of the firm’s most common planning strategies—designed to safeguard vulnerable beneficiaries and keep family dynamics as smooth as possible.

True Peace of Mind

Ultimately, estate planning is less about documents and more about comfort. Kuhn sees relief every day. “People tell us they’ve been losing sleep over this for years,” she says. “After they finally do it, they feel prepared. You don’t know if you’ll get hit by a bus tomorrow or live another 50 years—but planning ahead gives true peace of mind. After all, you worked hard for your money – you might as well make sure its being left correctly to the people you care about.”