By Brandon Rains, Founder and Attorney at The Rains Law Firm

2026 has certainly been a dramatic year so far.  Geopolitical concerns, war, inflation, Artificial Intelligence, company layoffs, market corrections, domestic politics, unemployment, and many other factors are pressing down upon Americans and causing grave concern and worry. 

This is understandably causing many Americans to hold off on financial commitments “until things get back to normal.”  This is perfectly normal.  These factors are combining to make financial matters more urgent for many families, and all those who know the phrase “tyranny of the urgent” know how appropriate it can truly be. 

However, there is a second part to that phrase that we believe is still relevant to the quintessential American household: “priority of the important.”  Some things are still constant and important even with everything going on.  We strongly believe that estate planning is one of those important things.  Mental incapacity and even death can still come upon anyone at any time, and a lack of planning can result in an even larger tragedy. 

Creating effective estate planning offers peace of mind for you and your family, and a smooth and calming experience when the documents are needed.  You still need this type of planning, and these chaotic times don’t really change that need.