- “The highest and best purpose of the estate planning process is, for me, to facilitate the effective transfer of an appropriate amount of financial assets to succeeding generations of family members in a way that will improve their life course. Families that are effective in this process exhibit a number of common qualities. They treat their adult children with respect, openness, and clear communication. They strive to work with them as equals. The family money provides freedom and flexibility for their children, but is not so important as to be key to their sense of self worth. They use considered principles to guide their decision-making surrounding the uses of the family money. Foremost among the guiding principles is the assumption that adult children should take responsibility for their lives.” Wealth in Families Third Edition (Charles W. Collier) Page 96