Estate Planning Issue: If a husband and wife both die, who will raise the children?

In addition to governing the distribution of assets a properly drafted will can be use to appoint a guardian for a minor child. For an example of this, see the Last Will of Michael Jackson where he appointed his mother guardian of his children, and Diana Ross the successor guardian. If both parents are deceased and die intestate (without a will) the Probate Court will appoint a Guardian for the minor children of its own choosing. Therefore, a will is an effective tool to pick an appropriate person to raise your children should you be unable to do so.