Legal Resources & Blog | Roach Law Philadelphia

The holiday season is a time of joy, warmth, and connection. Families gather around the table to share meals, laughter, and long-standing traditions. It’s also one of the rare occasions when multiple generations are together in one place — making it a natural opportunity to discuss important future plans, such as estate planning.

Opening the Conversation

Bringing up estate planning during the holidays may feel uncomfortable, but it can also bring tremendous peace of mind. These discussions aren’t about money — they’re about protection, clarity, and care for the people you love most.

Start with empathy. A quiet moment — perhaps during a walk or over coffee — can provide the right atmosphere for open dialogue. At Roach Law, we often remind families that these talks aren’t about morbidity, but about ensuring that everyone’s wishes are known and respected.

Questions Adult Children Can Ask Parents

Adult children can gently initiate estate planning conversations with thoughtful questions like:

Do you have an up-to-date will or trust in place?
Who have you chosen to make financial and medical decisions if you become unable to?
Have you shared your wishes for medical care and end-of-life planning?
If something happened tomorrow, would we know where to find your important documents and accounts?
Are there heirlooms or traditions you’d like us to know the stories behind?
Do you feel confident that the people you’ve chosen to handle your affairs are still the right ones?

Questions Parents Can Ask Adult Children

Parents, too, can guide the conversation by asking their adult children:

Do you know where to find my important documents in case of an emergency?
Have you considered creating your own will or estate plan?
If you received an inheritance tomorrow, would you know what to do with it or who to turn to for help?
Are there family keepsakes or traditions you’d be heartbroken not to have carried forward?
If you had to step in to help us — financially or medically — what support would you need?

Bringing It All Together

Estate planning is not just about wealth — it’s about love, foresight, and family legacy. By approaching these conversations as a gift of clarity, families can ensure their values, stories, and traditions endure for generations.

At Roach Law, serving Philadelphia and the surrounding Southeastern Pennsylvania communities, we believe estate planning should empower families to care for one another with confidence and compassion. Our attorneys are here to help you start the conversation, understand your options, and create a plan that reflects your unique wishes.

If you’re unsure where to begin, reach out to our experienced legal team for personalized guidance and peace of mind this holiday season.

Contact Roach Law today to schedule a consultation.