Estate Planning for Couples

When preparing an estate plan for a couple in LiraDocs, you can choose to either add both parties separately or place them on the same contact card. Here’s a breakdown of both methods and their benefits:

1️⃣ Adding Both Parties Separately

This is the best practice as it simplifies document automation and ensures greater flexibility when creating and managing estate plans. Here’s how to add each party separately:

📌 Steps:

1. Navigate to the Matter Details section.
2. Mouse over Client.
3. Right-click and select Add Client.
4. Choose whether the new party shares the same attorney or needs a different one.
5. Client 1 and Client 2 will be listed under Matter Details, with each party having their own profile.

By adding clients separately, you improve document generation and allow for clearer role assignments (e.g., Executor or Trustee).

2️⃣ Adding Both Parties on a Single Contact Card

Alternatively, you can add both clients to one contact card. However, while this method simplifies billing (both clients will share the same address on invoices), it can complicate document automation.

📌 Steps:

1. Double-click on the Client field under Matter Details to open the Contact Card.
2. Select Add Another Person.
3. Enter as much information as possible for the second party.
4. Select Save.
5. The additional contact will now appear alongside the original client in the Client field.

This method may be useful for couples who prefer having a consolidated contact card, but for optimal document automation, the separate clients method is recommended.