What is Estate Planning?
The definition of an estate is “all assets owned by an individual at death, to be distributed according to the individual’s will” or a court ruling if there is no will. Read more
Why do I Need an Estate Plan?
Just because you may not have a multi-million dollar estate doesn’t mean an estate plan won’t protect the ones you love. An estate plan allows you to plan for your disability and direct the distribution of your property. It may save tax dollars, professional fees and court costs. Most importantly, it keeps you in control of your own affairs. Read more
Living Trusts
None of us wants to think about our own death. However, since that is inevitable, a living trust is an important estate-planning tool that can help save the expense and delay of distribution. It may also help married couples avoid estate taxes. Read more
Wills
A will is perhaps the most important legal document the average American will ever sign. Yet, over 70% of American adults do not have a will. Without a will, the state, not you, decides who is entitled to your personal items and granted custody of your minor children. Read more
Living Wills
As competent adults, we have the right to make decisions in advance, as to whether or not we would like to decline life support when it is clear that death is imminent or a state of coma becomes permanent. Today, life support systems can keep an individual’s body alive for years, even if the brain is no longer functioning or the person is in constant pain. Read more
What is a financial power of attorney?
A financial power of attorney is a written document that gives another person power to make financial decisions for you and to manage your finances. This person is referred to as your “attorney in fact”. Read more
What is a medical power of attorney?
A medical power of attorney names a person to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. You can also authorize this person to discontinue (or not start) life support-like procedures, if you are terminally ill. Read more
Probate
Probate is the review or testing of a will before a court of law to ensure that the will is authentic. Also, the process by which an executor (if there is a will) or a court-appointed administrator (if there is not a will) manages and distributes a decedent’s property. Read more
Answers to Common Questions
Should I leave written instructions about my final ceremonies and the disposition of my body?
Letting your loved ones know your wishes saves them the difficulties of making these decisions at a painful time in their lives. Many family members and friends find that discussing these matters ahead of time is a great relief, especially if a person is elderly or in poor health. Read more