A Delicate Balance: Protecting Both Assets and Wellbeing

Ruce emphasizes that parents are not forced to choose between disinheriting their child or risking their financial future due to possible risky behavior or poor decision-making. Instead, structured trusts, such as testamentary trusts or revocable living trusts, can be included in estate plans to ensure that the child receives the support they need without enabling harmful behaviors.

“Whenever there’s concern about someone receiving money outright—whether it’s due to addiction, age, or other factors—there are options,” explains Ruce. “You don’t have to disinherit your child. We can create a trust directly in your will to put safeguards in place.”

Tailoring Trusts to Support Recovery

The article provides actionable advice for families, including creating a trust that can fund rehabilitation, therapy, and other essential resources. Parents can also include provisions to address setbacks like relapses without penalizing the child, fostering an environment that supports resilience and progress.

“Recovery doesn’t happen overnight,” Ruce explained. “Setbacks are common, but a well-structured trust can provide the resources to help your child get back on track without jeopardizing their future.”

The article also discusses the use of non-monetary incentives, such as funding fitness memberships or educational opportunities, as a safer alternative to direct cash distributions.

Inheritance Planning Now Is Critical for Minneapolis Families

This publication is especially timely for families in Minnesota, where default state estate laws may not align with personal wishes. By addressing addiction concerns within an estate plan, parents can ensure their intentions are honored while preserving their child’s financial stability.

“Having these conversations now can provide peace of mind for families,” says Ruce. “Our goal is to help parents create a plan that protects their loved ones and reflects their values.”

Parents with a child struggling with a substance abuse disorder do not have to choose between protecting their child’s inheritance and supporting their recovery. With the right estate plan, families can achieve both. The team at Stone Arch Law Office is ready help Minneapolis families structure a plan that ensures their loved one’s wellbeing and financial security.

About Stone Arch Law Office

Stone Arch Law Office, based in Minneapolis and Woodbury, Minnesota, brings years of experience to provide clients with the comprehensive estate planning services needed for their family. With the help of professional estate planning lawyers plans can be structured in advance. The law firm creates wills and trusts for families who want to feel secure that their loved ones are cared-for. In addition, their legal team offers solutions to even the most complicated estate planning problems and would be happy to speak with prospective clients about setting up an appointment. Stone Arch Law Office, PLLC is proud to be one of the few estate planning firms in Minneapolis.