8 Overlooked Essentials in Your Will: What Tulsa Families Should Not Forget

At Littleton Legal, we know that drafting a Last Will and Testament (“Will”) is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family. But even with the best intentions, many people unintentionally leave out key provisions. These omissions can create stress, confusion, and even conflict for your loved ones during an already difficult time.

Here are eight commonly overlooked items that deserve careful consideration when preparing your Will.

1. Guardian Nominations for Pets

Pets are family, but in the eyes of the law, they are considered personal property. Without clear instructions in your Will, your pet’s future may be uncertain. Designate both a trusted caretaker and, if possible, set aside funds to support their care. This ensures your beloved companion continues to receive the love and attention they deserve.

2. Digital Assets and Online Accounts

From email accounts and photo storage to cryptocurrency and streaming services, your digital footprint may be larger than you realize. Naming a digital executor and providing access instructions can help prevent your online presence from becoming a source of frustration or loss for your family.

3. Sentimental Personal Belongings

Some of the most painful disputes arise over items that have little financial value but great emotional significance. Think of family heirlooms, handwritten recipes, or holiday decorations. A personal property memorandum can outline your wishes and help avoid unnecessary disagreements.

4. Disinheritance Language

If you intend to exclude someone from your Will—such as an estranged child or sibling—it is important to state this directly. Silence on the matter can lead to costly legal challenges. Including a brief but clear statement can make your wishes more enforceable and reduce the risk of disputes.

5. Contingent Beneficiaries

Life is unpredictable. If a named beneficiary passes away before you do, assets may be redirected by default under state law. Always name alternate beneficiaries so your wishes are carried out regardless of the circumstances.

6. Funeral and Burial Instructions

While many people share their funeral preferences verbally, including these wishes in writing ensures clarity. Keep in mind that a Will is not always reviewed right away. For time-sensitive decisions like burial or cremation, consider writing a separate letter and letting your loved ones know where to find it.

7. Business Succession Provisions

If you own a business, your Will should address what happens to your ownership interest. Without clear direction, your business partners may be left navigating uncertainty or working with heirs who are unprepared to manage the role. Succession planning protects the future of your business and your family.

8. Special Instructions for Dependents With Disabilities

When caring for a loved one with special needs, a simple guardianship designation is not always enough. Detailed instructions about medical care, routines, dietary needs, and other preferences can help ensure consistency and reduce disruption during a difficult transition. In many cases, a specialized Special Needs Trust may be necessary to protect benefit eligibility.

Comprehensive Planning Brings Peace of Mind

These eight considerations reflect just a portion of what goes into a truly effective estate plan. Every family is different, and a one-size-fits-all approach rarely provides the protection your loved ones deserve.

At Littleton Legal, we take a holistic approach that includes not only your Last Will and Testament, but also complementary documents like Durable Power of Attorney, Health Care Power of Attorney, HIPAA Authorization, and Advance Health Care Directive. Together, these form a complete estate plan that addresses both what happens if you become incapacitated and what happens after your passing.

Our team takes the time to understand your unique circumstances and create an estate plan that is both legally sound and deeply personal. Whether you need to draft a new Will or update an existing one, we’re here to help you protect what matters most.

To schedule a consultation, click here or call our office at (918) 608-1836. We look forward to helping you create a plan that reflects your values and provides peace of mind for those you love.