Creating a comprehensive estate plan is one of the most important things you will do during your lifetime. When done properly, your estate plan will ensure that your loved ones are well provided for in the event of your untimely death as well as distribute your assets pursuant to your wishes. If not executed properly, it can wreak havoc with your finances and fail to provide the protection for your loved ones that it was intended to do. Given the importance of your estate plan, the first step in … [Read more...] about Choosing an Estate Planning Attorney

Many people choose to put off estate planning because they feel it is not a necessity until a later time in life.  The truth is, everyone needs to have an estate plan in place.  This will help to prepare for the unexpected.  Below are five key of the benefits of having an estate plan.  To commence your planning, schedule a meeting with an experienced and qualified estate planning attorney today. Give you and your family peace of mind. With a plan in place, you and your family members will … [Read more...] about What are the Benefits of Estate Planning?

  So, you’ve been putting off the need to plan, right? Were you hoping to plan later in life, so that you could focus on what today has to offer?  While your life may currently be busy and exciting, you need to take the time to make difficult decisions, so that you have control over your future affairs.   If you neglect the need to plan, you will have no control. Many people seem to think that estate planning is an option; however, if you care about anyone or you want to stay in … [Read more...] about Estate Planning is a Necessity

A successful estate plan is an estate plan that works.  An estate plan works if it does what you want it to do.  The 3 keys to a successful estate plan are communication with loved ones, updating on a regular basis, and consultation with a qualified and experienced estate planning attorney.  If you have all 3 keys, the door opens to a successful plan and your investment of time, effort, and money will be worth it.   Importantly, your wishes will be honored.  In other words, your estate plan will … [Read more...] about The Keys to a Successful Estate Plan

If you want the best estate planning possible, you will need to take extra care when handling your affairs.  It can be extremely beneficial to get the help of an experienced and qualified estate planning attorney.  He or she will be there to advise you throughout the entire process and help you develop the best plan that meets your needs.   Take a look at the following information, to learn more about the 4 benefits of hiring a experienced and qualifiied estate planning lawyer.  If you have any … [Read more...] about 4 Benefits to Hiring an Estate Planning Attorney

We understand if engaging in the estate planning process seems like a big deal.  There are forms to fill out, difficult issues to think about, documents to review, legal fees to be paid, and you have to work with an attorney which may be something you have not previously had to do.  None of these things rank highly on anyone’s “My Top 10 Ways to Spend an Afternoon.”  But, let us put your mind at ease. Once you enter the estate planning process, you’ll feel a much better.  You’ll be able to … [Read more...] about Estate Planning? How do I Start?

An estate plan is an important part of one’s plan for the future.  Many realize that they need the assistance of an experienced and qualified attorney to assist them in their efforts.  Unfortunately, some folks will cut corners in their estate planning efforts in an effort to save a few bucks or because they think they are as smart as or smarter than their estate planning lawyer when it comes to drafting documents or both. Even with persons who were prudent enough to have their original plans … [Read more...] about Where Do It Yourself = Do It Wrong

If you’re beginning to think about your estate planning needs, you’re probably considering hiring an estate planning attorney.  You’re on the right track; hiring an experienced and qualified estate planning is highly recommended and will pay off handsomely.  However, you may have some confusion as to what exactly an estate planning attorney does or how he or she can help you.  Take a look at the following information.  If you have any questions, or if you’d like to begin your estate planning, … [Read more...] about So, You are Looking at Hiring an Estate Planning Attorney

Question 1: What is Probate? Probate is legal process through which a deceased person’s property must proceed before a new legal owner can be identified. Probate is designed to evaluate what a deceased person owned, as well as what kind of debts the person had. The property the person owned is used to pay off the debts, and anything left over is distributed to his or her inheritors. Question 2: Does all a Person’s Property go Through Probate? No. Some property is specifically exempt from … [Read more...] about Probate Basics: Some Considerations

Revocable living trusts are one of the best estate planning tools available to most people. These trusts allow you great flexibility in not only selecting who receives your property after you die, but also in avoiding probate and reducing potential estate tax issues. However, there are specific laws which apply to creating and using a revocable living trust, and if you want to make changes to the trust after you make it, you must be sure to do so properly. Here's what you need to … [Read more...] about Your Living Trust – What if You Want to Change it?