Problems with family or friends

Tom’s family or friends may not agree with decisions you help Tom make concerning his money and property. To help reduce any friction, follow the suggestions described above and the guidelines we have given you.

  • Help Tom communicate his decisions (unless Tom has said that you should not). It usually is easier to deal with questions about a decision immediately rather than to deal with suspicion and anger that may build over a long time. There may be less friction with family and friends if they understand Tom’s decisions and how he reached them.
  • Some family or friends may not have Tom’s best interest at heart, so it may be better not to share information with them. Use your best judgment and always follow Tom’s intentions.
  • If family or friends don’t agree with Tom’s decisions, try to get someone to help sort it out—for example, through a family counselor or mediator. See Where to Go For Help. But in the end, Tom is entitled to make his own decisions, and your job is to help him make the best decision for himself.