Estate Planning
We assist a broad range of clients with estates and trust planning. The estate planning process does not need to be confusing or overwhelming. We strive to provide clear answers to all your questions and provide you with a plan you can understand. We will listen to your goals for your health care decisions, assets, and how you want your estate to be passed down. We can help you decide on the estate planning options which are right for you.
We believe that every adult should have the following four (4) essential estate planning documents properly prepared:
1. A will or trust to control distribution of your assets;
2. A durable power of attorney for finance to appoint another person to act on your behalf to financially manage your assets in the event of incapacity;
3. A durable power of attorney for health to authorize someone to make medical decisions for you in the event that you are unable to do so yourself; and
4. An advanced health care directive to specify treatment preferences and who can make medical decisions in the event of your incapacity.
In addition to general estate planning, we can help you address estate planning goals such as:
-
transferring wealth to heirs
-
protection from creditors
-
tax planning and estate tax exemptions
-
asset protection
We use planning tools such as Qualified Terminal Interest Property Trusts (QTIP), Disclaimer Trusts, Special Needs Trusts, and Credit Shelter Trusts. By placing assets in a trust, you may protect them from potential creditors and lawsuits. Trusts can also be used for tax planning and as an effective tool for transferring wealth to future generations.