Contrary to popular belief "estate planning" is not something for only the very wealthy. Estate planning can simply be the preparation of a Will to name a guardian for minor children and/or for the disposition of your assets. Estate planning can also be more complex, such as the preparation of a Living Trust designed to hold assets during your lifetime and pass ownership outside of Probate upon death, or of a Testamentary Trust to provide for the management of your assets for your beneficiaries after your death. It can also refer to planning for the continuation or succession of your business interestes.
A discussion on "estate planning" can include the implications of passing assets through the probate process versus the use of a Living Trust, or a combination of the two. What is right for one person may not be the best for another. Our firm can discuss these estate planning issues with you and make recommendations based on your individual needs.
Our goals are to help remove the mystery and apprehension sometimes associated with the estate planning process, help each client meet his or her specific needs in this area, and assist the client in achieving some peace of mind regarding how loved ones and assets will be taken care of in the event of incapacity or death.
Proper estate planning is best done on an individual case by case basis, and should be personalized based on a client's particular situation. An estate plan recommended for one individual at one point in his or her lifetime may need to be updated or changed as the individual's circumstances and family relationships change over time. Our experienced attorneys will meet with you to discuss your particular needs and concerns, and offer recommendations based upon your situation.
Our attorneys are knowledgeable and have considerable experience in connection with the preparation of the following types of estate planning documents, all or some of which may be recommended for an individual's needs:
- Wills (sometimes called a "Last Will and Testament")
- Codicils (separate documents which amend or change a prior Will)
- Durable General Power of Attorney
- Advance Health Care Directives (commonly called "Living Wills")
- Health Care Powers of Attorney
- Revocable Living Trusts
- Testamentary Trusts
- Irrevocable Trusts
- Special Needs Trusts
Contact us to schedule an appointment with an attorney experienced in the area of Estate Planning.
