For our latest episode of Independent Perspectives, I had the privilege of sitting down with Jandy John, Director of Estates and Trusts at Concentra Trust. Jandy brings over 30 years of experience in estate planning, trust administration, and fiduciary services. I’m grateful to count her as a trusted partner to many of our clients navigating life’s most sensitive transitions.
While I encourage you to watch the full video, here are a few key takeaways from our conversation:
- The best estate plans begin well before they’re needed. From documenting your wishes to appointing the right people, early preparation gives your family clarity, comfort, and direction when it matters most.
- Who you name matters. Choosing the right executor is critical. They must be trustworthy, competent, and ideally younger than you. In more complex cases, or where no suitable family member exists, a professional executor like a trust company may be the right choice.
- Every family has complexity. Whether it’s a property in another country, a child with a disability, or the dynamics of a blended family, estate planning needs to be tailored. Jandy shared how testamentary trusts, multiple wills, and other tools can ensure your wishes are carried out effectively and compassionately.
- Where you store your will matters too. One of Jandy’s best tips: do not store your original will in a safety deposit box. Why? Because it can become inaccessible at the precise moment when it’s needed most. Instead, keep it somewhere secure but accessible, and let your executor know where to find it.
Stay tuned for more episodes of Independent Perspectives, where we share practical insights from our expert network. If you’d like an introduction to Jandy or have questions about your own estate plan, don’t hesitate to reach out.
