An Oklahoma financial expert says many families underestimate the importance of creating a will and living trust to protect their assets and avoid costly legal delays.

Tracey LaVale, president and CEO of TTF Impact Financial Services, told News 9 that planning ahead ensures hard-earned assets stay with family members instead of getting tied up in court.

"As Americans, we work so hard for everything that we have. We want to make sure that we protect it. We want to make sure that we protect it enough that our children do get it, and that we can leave a legacy for them."

LaVale said families who fail to plan could face lengthy and expensive probate proceedings.

“The average cost for Oklahomans is $22,000 to $23,000,” she said. “It takes about three months or longer, and some people are in

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