Who’s Your Daddy? Let’s Talk About Inheritance!

Image By: Ivan Pantic

In estate planning, paternity must be legally established for a child to inherit. Probate courts don’t go by “everyone knows”, they go by records. That means children not legally recognized may be excluded from their parents’ estate. 

For men and women aged 35–50, this is especially relevant if you: 

• Were born outside of a marriage and/or raised by a single parent 

• Are raising children (biological or blended) 
   

• Manage your parents’ or grandparents’ estate 
   

• Want to keep family secrets out of probate court 
   

3 Steps You Can Take Today 

-Name Children Clearly in Your Will or Trust 
Use full legal names, don’t assume recognition. 
 

-Establish Legal Paternity or Guardianship Now 
Formalize relationships with those you call parents, or that you are claiming as your child’s parent, before they become disputes.  This could involve a formal court action, or filing agreements as to paternity with your local court.  Seek an attorney for clear guidance on your particular situation.  
 

-Use a Trust to Protect Privacy 
Wills go public in probate. Trusts protect beneficiaries—and your family’s privacy. 
 

What Happens If You Don’t Plan? 

Without clarity, the state decides who counts as “family.” That can leave children cut out, and family secrets exposed in public records. 

Final Takeaway 

Empowerment means deciding who belongs in your legacy. Don’t let probate laws or rumors define your family. 

Book a Peace Session with Trusted Legal Warrior PLLC to secure your children’s inheritance and your family’s privacy.