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I'm too young to worry about sickness and wills.
While the odds may be in your favor, protecting your rights is not something you want to leave up to fate. How would you feel if your partner was in an accident and you weren't permitted to visit him in the hospital? What if you suddenly passed away and your family members claim rights to the house you just bought together? Unfortunately, these things do happen. Many lesbian and gay couples were left unprepared after the World Trade Center attacks of 9/11. As long as the law won't protect you, it's up to you to take the steps to protect your relationship.
I don't have any money. Why should I go to the trouble?
If you are killed in an accident, having a will may give your estate more options for bringing a wrongful death lawsuit. But it's not just about money. Many of the legal documents mentioned give you the power to decide who you want to be able to visit you in the hospital and who you want to make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
I don't have a lawyer that I'm comfortable discussing these issues with.
It is very important that you are comfortable with your lawyer and that he or she understands LGBT legal issues. If you need help finding a supportive attorney, we have included some helpful links under Additional Resources on the next page. Also keep in mind that your conversations with a lawyer are protected. Attorneys are required to keep all conversations private even if you later decide that you want to use another lawyer.
Lawyers are too expensive.
Simple wills and powers of attorney are not terribly expensive. If you are truly indigent and meet certain income requirements, your community may have a legal clinic that will help you for free. Please see Additional Resources on the next page.
>> Next: Additional Resources
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