Estate Planning and Probate
Our firm handles a variety of estate planning matters, including planning for the distribution of an individual’s property at his or her death and taking into account wills, taxes, insurance, property, and trusts so as to gain the maximum benefit of all laws, while, at the same time, carrying out the person’s wishes. We have years of experience in estate planning and can prepare wills, trusts, powers of attorney and living wills. We have also handled many successions with or without administration.
Trusts - In order to establish a secure and regular income for loved ones left behind, many clients seek advice on Trust establishment and administration. By maintaining your assets in a Trust, you can minimize taxes and leave a larger inheritance. The use of a Trust is also a way to provide a steady income to the Beneficiary over the course of time, rather than distribution in a lump sum. This strategy can reduce the Beneficiary's tax and allow the Trust to grow through investment. Trusts can also be established that allow charitable organizations to benefit.
Wills - A will is a person's declaration of how one wants their property disbursed after death. Because there are complex regulations regarding the validity of any will, it is important to hire an attorney with knowledge and experience. It is also true that these regulations vary from state to state. Be sure to hire an attorney who continually seeks out changes in the rules to be sure your wishes can be honored after your death.
Probate & Estate Administration - Probate is the legal process by which a person’s debts are paid and assets are distributed upon her or his death. Estate Administration includes the probate process as well as non-probate transfers of the deceased’s assets. Individual state laws direct the probate court how to distribute the deceased’s estate. State laws and procedures vary greatly, so, it is important to consult a firm with expertise in this area of the law to ensure that the deceased’s assets are distributed correctly.
