Estate Planning

Estate planning is one of the most important steps any person can take to make sure that their final property and health care wishes are honored, and that loved ones are provided for in their absence. Though often overlooked or put off in favor of more immediate concerns, a comprehensive estate plan can resolve a number of legal questions that arise whenever anyone dies: What is the state of their financial affairs? What property do they own? Who gets what and when? Does a guardian need to be appointed to care for minor children? How much tax will need to be paid in order to transfer property ownership? What funeral arrangements are appropriate? Do I need a trust?  What kind of trust?

 

Regardless of your age, or the size and complexity of your estate, a good estate plan can accomplish the following:

  • Identify the family members and other loved ones that you wish to receive your property after your death.
  • Ensure that your property will be transferred to those you have identified, as quickly and with as few legal hurdles as possible.
  • Minimize the amount of taxes that will need to be paid in order for your property to pass to others after your death.
  • Avoid the time and costs associated with the probate process by utilizing estate planning devices like revocable "living" trusts and "payable on death" bank accounts.
  • Decide the kinds of medical care you wish to receive should you be unable to make your wishes known when the time comes.
  • Set forth the kind of funeral arrangements you would like, and how related expenses are to be paid.

My services in this area

  • Counsel the client as to the pros and cons of estate planning tools, explaining the tax and probate cost savings as well as proper asset dispostion steps.
  • Prepare the correct trust instruments and will documents. 
  • Prepare the necessary durable power of attorney, minor children guardian nomination and advance healthcare directive documents.
  • Walk the client through the neceassry document execution, asset transfer steps and recordation of document requirements.
  • If the client's deceased relative did not have an estate plan and probate is necessary, I am experienced in probating estates or litigating will or inheiritance contests. 
  • If a trust is invovled, I can assist administrating the trust or representing the client in a trust contest.

 

Do you have questions or do you want to make an appointment in this area?

Call us at +1 818 7251564 or use our contact form.