Every estate plan is unique because of a particular family's circumstances. Still, most people share many primary objectives that may be reflected in five documents often found at the core of a plan.

If your current estate plan doesn't include these five items, you might need to fill the gaps. And if you don't yet have a comprehensive estate plan in place, it's probably time to make that a priority. Mortality can sneak up on anyone.

1. Financial power of attorney: A power of attorney is a legal document that authorizes another person to act on your behalf. A financial power of attorney enables the "attorney-in-fact"—the person specified to act for you—to conduct your financial affairs. Many states have a standard form for financial power of attorney.