DMV Residents Why Your Mid-30s Is the Perfect Time to Start an Estate Plan

You've worked hard, built a life, and maybe even started a family. But if you haven't thought about estate planning yet, you're not alone — and you're not too late. In fact, your mid-30s is one of the best times to get started. Here's why it matters and how to begin.

Why Start Now?

Most people think Estate planning for real estate investors Maryland is only for the elderly or the wealthy. The truth is, life is unpredictable at any age. If you have a spouse, children, a home, a savings account, or even a pet — you have something worth protecting.

You likely have more assets than you realize (home equity, retirement accounts, life insurance)

You may have young children who need a legally designated guardian

Unexpected illness or accidents can happen at any age

Early planning gives you more control and flexibility

It protects your spouse or partner from legal and financial stress Estate planning attorney Montgomery County MD

The Core Documents You Need

Starting an estate plan doesn't have to be overwhelming. We will help you step-by-step:

Last Will & Testament: This is a legal document that directs who receives your assets and names a guardian for children under 18

Durable Power of Attorney: Designates someone to manage your finances if you are unable to manage your finances due to physical or mental health reasons.

Healthcare Proxy / Medical Power of Attorney: This document names someone to make medical decisions on your behalf

Living Will / Advance Directive: This details your wishes for end-of-life medical care

Beneficiary Designations: Ensures your retirement accounts and life insurance go to the right people (these override your will!)

Smart Steps to Get Started

Take inventory of your assets: List bank accounts, retirement funds, real estate, vehicles, digital assets, and valuables

Think about guardianship: Who would raise your children if something happened to you and your partner?

Review your beneficiaries: Check all accounts and insurance policies and update them as needed

Consider a trust: A revocable living trust can help avoid probate and keep your affairs private

Talk to your spouse or partner: Estate planning is a team effort; make sure you're aligned

Work with an estate planning attorney: DIY documents often have costly errors or missing language that can unravel your wishes

Simply Get Started.

In the DC area life is fast paced. Marriages, divorces, new children, new homes, and new businesses all affect your estate plan. The goal isn't to have a perfect plan; it's to have a plan that can be updated as life evolves and our team can help you!

Starting in your mid-30s gives you decades to refine and build on your foundation. The most important step is simply getting started.

The Law Office of Brian Gormley, LLC delivers streamlined legal support for probate, estate planning, and real estate matters. Serving clients across Maryland and Washington, DC, we focus on clarity, efficiency, and practical solutions that protect