Taking care of your family through a will or living trust gives you peace of mind

Everyone has an estate plan.  Why?  Because if you do not have your written estate plan for disposition of your assets after your death, the State has a plan for you.

When it comes to estate planning and having your wishes followed, wills and trusts are essential tools.  A common misconception is that only the wealthy are concerned with wills and trusts. However, the truth is that estate planning is a necessity for everyone. An estate plan provides the legal mechanism for transferring property upon your death in a manner which recognizes your wishes and the needs of your heirs or beneficiaries. Careful planning is necessary if you are leaving assets to a special needs individual.

A Will legally defines and declares how you want your property distributed upon your death. A Will does not go into effect until you are deceased. Until that time, so long as you have the capacity to do so, you can revoke or change your Will. After your death, the Will is admitted to probate by the court, and only then can the person you have chosen as your personal representative (or executor) administer the estate and ultimately distribute the probate assets in accordance with your wishes. An attorney is required to represent a Personal Representative in the probate process.

Properly funded trusts are not subject to probate proceedings. They are often preferred for this reason, as well as to facilitate administration during periods of incapacity during your lifetime. They are also useful in avoiding out of state probates if you have out-of-state property. A trust largely remains private.

While a trust is more involved to prepare and fund initially, it can save time and expense in the future if it is properly written and funded.

Contact Bowers & Foster Elder Law, P.A. to discuss your Estate Planning needs.