YOUR LOVE DESERVES A PLAN, NOT A PROBLEM

 

 

There are things we don't like to talk about. Death is one of them. It scares us, makes us uncomfortable, and we avoid it as if, by not mentioning it, we could cheat fate. But the truth is, death doesn't give warning, and when it arrives, all it leaves behind is the love we gave… and a mountain of legal paperwork if we don't prepare in time.

 

In my work as a lawyer, I've seen close-knit families tear apart because someone left without settling their affairs. Children fighting over assets, couples entangled in unnecessary legal battles, and inheritances stuck in legal limbo. All because we don't like to talk about the inevitable.

 

But here's the other side of the coin: life is about love, and part of loving is thinking about the well-being of our loved ones, even after we're gone. A will isn't a harbinger of death; it's an act of love. It's telling your family, "I'm taking care of you today, and I'll continue to take care of you tomorrow."

 

Deciding who to leave what we have worked so hard to build to should not be a taboo, but an act of conscious love. As Mario Benedetti once said: “After all, death is only a symptom that there was life.” And it is in life that we must make important decisions.

 

A will isn't just for the wealthy. It's for anyone who wants to leave peace and security for their family. Whether you own a house, a business, bank accounts, insurance policies, or even possessions of sentimental value (artwork, jewelry, furniture, books), a will is essential.

 

In Guatemala, the law recognizes three types of wills:

 

1. Open Will : It is made before a notary and witnesses. It is public and is registered.
2. Sealed Will : The testator writes it and delivers it sealed to a notary in the presence of witnesses. It is opened after their death.

 

 

Making a will is easier than many people think. You just need to meet the following requirements.

 

• Be over 18 years old.
• To be in full possession of one's mental faculties.
• Do it before a notary 
• Make your wishes clear to avoid future disputes
• Witnesses

 

As women, we often put others first. The well-being of our children, our partner, even our parents.  But what will happen if we're not around? Taking control of our legacy is one way to continue protecting them.

 

There are no excuses for putting it off. If you can decide today who you love and what you want for them, you can also decide what legacy you leave behind.

 

So let's live life to the fullest, love without reservation, laugh until our stomachs hurt… and put our affairs in order. Because life is today, but love transcends, and organizing our departure is the last act of love we can give.

 

The best time to make a will is now.

And you, have you already prepared your will?

 

Written By:

Ana Beatriz Tello

Lawyer