Estate Planning.

    When a client comes in for an initial consultation, one of our attorneys will work with the client to understand and assess the estate that the client owns presently. We always discuss families, potential heirs and beneficiaries and special considerations pertaining to each. We help clients make plans for taking care of themselves, their beneficiaries and their estates in the event of incapacity or upon death.

    Many types of legal documents are used to develop and implement a good estate plan, including Real Property Deeds, Wills and Trusts of various kinds. As well, Durable Powers of Attorney for Heath Care and Durable Powers of Attorney for Finance are powerful tools to provide protection in the event of incapacity. Also powerful are Living Wills, for end of life decision-making. Selecting the right individuals or, in some cases, professional companies, to act on a client’s behalf is also a critically important part of planning. It is our job to understand the goals and the specific desires of each client, and to recommend the appropriate documents.

    However, in addition to selecting, drafting and executing legal documents, an estate plan includes creating an understanding of the ways that property is owned and conveyed, and the various legal mechanisms that are available for carrying out an estate plan. At times, tax considerations guide the type of estate plan that best fits for an individual, couple or family. We can help assess complex situations and direct clients to tax professionals when needed, as well.