Meet Ethel
Ethel, a 72-year-old grandmother, lived alone and had begun thinking about how to make things easier for her children and grandchildren when she passed away.
She had heard too many stories of families torn apart by conflict when no will was left behind. Still, every time she looked into it, the legal jargon and paperwork felt overwhelming. She wanted to protect her family from confusion and conflict, but didn’t know where to start.
Looking for Help
With Administer Justice...
At her church, Ethel learned about Administer Justice and decided to book an appointment. A kind volunteer attorney walked her through the process step by step helping her create a simple will at no cost.
Her church community provided encouragement and guided her in thinking about the relational side of her decisions, including how to share her plans with her family in a way that fostered peace rather than conflict.
On her own...
On her own, Ethel downloaded a free form she found online. But the instructions were confusing, and she didn’t know if it would even hold up legally.
She kept putting it off, and each time she thought about it, the anxiety returned.
The Next Steps
With Administer Justice...
The plan included a will, powers of attorney, and instructions for organizing everything in a way her family could clearly understand.
Volunteers and her pastor gave her resources and prayed with her on how to start these delicate conversations with her children, helping her approach them with peace rather than fear.
On her own...
Without guidance, Ethel kept postponing everything. The subject felt too overwhelming, and she avoided bringing it up with her family.
The stress lingered over every holiday gathering, casting a shadow on otherwise joyful moments.
A Turning Point
With Administer Justice...
Ethel completed her documents and felt proud knowing her family would be cared for.
Talking openly with her children gave them clarity and comfort, easing potential conflict and bringing them closer together.
On her own...
Ethel continued to put it off. The thought of paperwork weighed heavily, and her family remained in the dark about her wishes.
The Difference it Made
With Administer Justice...
Today, Ethel’s family has peace of mind knowing her desires are clear. She feels lighter, her children feel reassured, and their relationships are stronger for it.
On her own...
When Ethel passed away suddenly, her family was left without a plan. Arguments over her estate created rifts that strained relationships and added heartache to their grief.
