Page 16 - LIN_FEB_2026_web-file

Empowered Planning:

How Estate Planning Helps Women

Protect Their Lives, Wealth, and Legacy

by Enita Kushi, P.A.
Kushi Law Firm
state planning is often Equally vital is a durable financial power of attorney. This
misunderstood as something document allows a trusted person of your choosing to manage your
Ereserved for later in life or only finances if you are temporarily or permanently unable to do so. From
for the ultra-wealthy. In reality, it is one paying bills to handling banking, investments, or business matters,
of the most empowering acts a woman it keeps your financial life running smoothly while you focus on
can take—one that protects her well- healing and recovery.
being, preserves her assets, and ensures Protecting What You’ve Built
her voice is heard when it matters most. Estate planning also safeguards your assets and legacy. While a
Far from being about death, estate Last Will and Testament directs who inherits your property, it often
planning is about living with intention, requires probate—a court process that can be time-consuming and
confidence, and peace of mind. public. Trust-based planning, such as revocable or irrevocable trusts,
Women, Wealth, and Taking Control can help avoid probate, maintain privacy, plan for incapacity, and
Women today wear many hats: professionals, entrepreneurs, protect assets for future generations.
caregivers, spouses, mothers, daughters, and friends. We build For women who own businesses, invest in real estate, or practice
businesses, manage households, care for aging parents, and often in licensed professions, thoughtful planning can also reduce liability
put others’ needs ahead of our own. Statistically, women tend and risk. Proper legal structures, insurance, and trusts can help
to live longer, may step away from the workforce for family, and shield personal assets and provide long-term stability—especially in
frequently find themselves managing finances alone due to divorce blended families or second marriages.
or widowhood. For these reasons, estate planning isn’t a luxury— Your Next Step Forward
it’s essential self-care. The most important step is simply to begin. Start by listing
A thoughtful estate plan allows you to stay in control of the your assets, obligations, and the people who depend on you—
life you worked so hard to build. It ensures that your values, or whom you trust to help you when the time comes. Gather
priorities, and wishes—not chance or court involvement—guide existing documents and keep them organized. Then, meet with an
what happens to you and your assets. experienced Florida estate planning attorney who can create a plan
Protecting Your Well-Being and Your Voice tailored to your life, your family, and your goals.
At the heart of every strong estate plan is protection of your You don’t need all the answers to get started. You only need to
health and autonomy. Documents such as a health care surrogate decide that you are worth protecting—your life, your voice, and
designation, living will, and HIPAA authorization empower you the legacy you are building—and that powerful decision changes
to decide who will speak for you, what medical care you want, everything.
and who can access your medical information if you are unable to About the author
speak for yourself. Enita Kushi is the owner of Kushi Law Firm, P.A., an estate
These tools remove uncertainty during medical emergencies planning, trust administration, and probate firm based in Naples,
and spare loved ones from painful guesswork or disagreements. Florida. Her practice is dedicated to helping women protect their
Most importantly, they ensure that your voice is honored—even well-being, preserve their assets, and thoughtfully plan their legacy.
when you cannot be physically present to advocate for yourself. Phone: (239) 529-8731 • Email: Enita@kushilawfirm.com
www.kushilawfirm.com • 5687 Naples Blvd. Naples, FL 34109
16 www.LifeInNaples.net