Estate Planning

Many individuals put off estate planning for a variety of reasons, but creating an estate plan is extremely important and benefits you and your family.   Proper estate planning allows you to appoint a guardian for minor children, ensure that property is passed according to your wishes, avoid probate, and designate a trusted person to act on your behalf should you become incapacitated. 

Your estate plan should reflect your unique, individual needs.  We provide comprehensive estate planning services for our clients that takes into consideration the clients’ specific needs and desires, and plans for nearly any contingency. 

All of the following documents are included in our trust package:

Will.  A will governs the distribution of property in your estate.  It appoints a “personal representative” who will handle the estate, and is used to appoint a guardian for minor children.

Trust.  Trusts are a valuable estate planning tool.  A basic living trust allows you to avoid probate and your successor trustee can   quickly and efficiently pass the property in your estate to the beneficiaries you name. 

General Durable Power of Attorney.  A power of attorney appoints a trusted individual to handle your affairs if you become unable to do so.  It may take effect immediately, or become effective only upon your incapacity.

Medical Power of Attorney.  A medical power of attorney appoints a trusted individual to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.

Living Will.  A “living will” or “healthcare directive” directs your physician, or other healthcare providers, to withhold life-sustaining procedures when they would serve only to unnecessarily prolong life.

If you own a closely-held business, have children from a prior marriage, desire to make charitable contributions with your estate, or are concerned about estate tax issues, we encourage you to contact us.