The Importance of Being Prepared Can't Be Stressed Enough

Dealing with estate planning and the process of preparing your Last Will and Testament, a power of attorney, a request for a natural death or healthcare power of attorney can be looming tasks that can seem impossible to prepare. These kinds of documents need the careful eye of a highly experienced and well-versed attorney to ensure all of your t's are crossed and i's are dotted. Your loved ones will be affected by these documents, making it all the more important to ensure they are drafted properly the first time. 

What is an Estate Plan? Many people think an estate plan is just about writing a Last Will and Testament. Although a will is part of it, an estate plan is much broader. For example, a good estate plan also says who you want to make decisions about your money and health if you can't decide for yourself.

A well-thought-out estate plan helps to:

• Help the people or causes you care about,

• Decide who gets what (and who doesn't),

• Take care of your children if something happens to you,

• Reduce taxes and fees on what you leave behind, and

• Sort out who owns what, like a business or a house, after you're gone.

Do I Need an Estate Plan? In short, YES. Estate planning is a way to make sure your wishes about your health and money are known and followed if you can't speak for yourself or if you pass away. While we think everyone can benefit from having a good estate plan, it's especially important if you say yes to any of these questions:

• Are you married?

• Do you have kids?

• Do you own more than you owe?

What Does an Estate Plan Include? Our basic estate planning includes:

• Last Will and Testament

• Personal Property Memorandum

• Durable Power of Attorney

• Healthcare Power of Attorney

• Living Will (Advanced Directive)

• And more