ESTATE PLANNING
No one likes to think about what might happen in the case of death or disability. Taking time to plan today can protect you and your loved ones in the future. With proper Estate Planning, you can save yourself and your family from uncertainty, unneeded costs and administrative delays.
Our goal is to provide our clients with Estate Planning that emphasizes:
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A durable power of attorney to manage your affairs in case of disability.
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Appointment of an agent to make healthcare decisions in the event you cannot make those decisions yourself.
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Disposition of assets to control tax liability.
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Appointment of guardians to raise minor children.
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Appointment of individuals (or entities) to handle the minors' assets.
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Special circumstances - disabled beneficiaries, 2nd marriages, etc.
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Trusts – tax avoidance, preserve benefits, asset protection, custody of minor’s inheritance, etc.
ESTATE ADMINISTRATION
Losing a loved one is devastating. The process of settling an Estate can be complicated and costly. Drawing on decades of experience, we guide our clients through the process with expertise, efficiency and compassion.
Each case is unique, but most involve the following steps:
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Filing of a petition with the proper probate court.
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Notice to heirs under the Will or to statutory heirs (if no Will exists).
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Petition to appoint Executor (in the case of a Will) or Administrator for the estate.
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Inventory and appraisal of estate assets by Executor/Administrator.
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Payment of estate debt to rightful creditors.
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Sale of estate assets.
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Payment of estate taxes, if applicable.
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Final distribution of assets to heirs.