PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
Preserving the Life You Love
No one knows what tomorrow may bring, but there are some inevitabilities for which you can prepare. You’ve worked too hard to risk your personal security or the legacy you leave, so it is wise to establish an estate plan you can count on no matter what comes your way. Whether your estate is substantial or modest, we can help you design an estate plan that fits your unique circumstances and addresses your concerns.
What Is An Estate Plan?
An estate plan is a legal strategy designed to anticipate and arrange for the care and disposition of your property at death or permanent incapacitation.
Your estate plan typically includes a variety of legal documents, such as:
- Last Will and Testament
- Trusts
- Powers of Attorney
- Medical Directive
- Nomination of Guardianship
- Beneficiary Designations
For every benefit in having an estate plan, there are also several risks to not having one. Having an estate plan ensures certainty (whereas not having a plan results in uncertainty); having an estate plan ensures efficiency in transition of property (whereas not having a plan could result in significant delays and costs); and importantly, having a plan allows you to name who you want to be in charge of your estate after you die (whereas if you don’t have a plan the court will appoint someone).
Who Needs An Estate Plan?
While it’s true that not quite everyone needs a plan, the reality is that most people need a plan. If you have a house (or any real property), banking or securities accounts, personal assets, motor vehicles, a spouse, children, or anyone else you care to benefit from your assets when you die, you need an estate plan.
Sometimes the simplest words can cause confusion. A lot of people understandably think estate plans are only for large estate holders or older individuals with sizeable net worth. That is not the case. If you own a small house, a car, or have a modest bank account – in the eyes of the law, you have an “estate.”
Remember, an estate plan ensures your assets go to the people and organizations you choose upon your passing or incapacitation. We live in a world of uncertainty, so making plans for the future is a good idea for everyone, no matter how old, young, or wealthy.