You probably understand the importance of a will, but for many people, it’s not a top priority. Often, the confusion surrounding estate planning deters people from even trying to craft a will. While it may not be fun to think about, preparing a will is much more important than people sometimes think. It is important to give careful consideration to various aspects of estate planning because the plan you craft is meant to protect the important people in your life.
Consider these questions:
- When was the last time you updated your will?
- Have you considered who would make medical and financial decisions for you if you were suddenly incapacitated?
- What if your parents or grandparents could no longer care for themselves and need a guardian?
- What if they pass away? What do you need to do as the executor of their will?
Our probate and estate planning attorneys at Jackson, Landrith & Kulesz, PC can help you address these questions and more. Our experienced team can help guide you through the estate planning process, answering any questions you may have along the way.
What do I need to know about estate planning?
Estate planning is much more than just having a will in place. We can help you understand all aspects of the estate planning process, and address the ones you feel are important for your family. Often this involves:
Simple Wills or Wills with Trusts
Your will helps protect your family’s financial future by distributing your property and resources in a way you want after your death. To make this process easier, we can set up a trust. This allows your family members to gain access to the assets they inherit more quickly after you pass, without having to attend a probate court proceeding.
Medical Power of Attorney
A medical power of attorney authorizes a family member or other named individual (i.e., the agent) to make certain key decisions about your medical treatment and care if you cannot make the decision on your own.
Financial Power of Attorney
A financial power of attorney is similar to a medical power of attorney, only it allows your family member to make decisions about your accounts if you are not able.
Advance Directive
Sometimes referred to as a living will, a Directive to Physicians and Family or Surrogates is a document outlining your end-of-life wishes. For example, many people do not want to be on a ventilator when there is little chance of recovery.
How can an estate planning lawyer help me with estate administration and probate?
Even with a will, the probate process is often complicated. Probate pays off a person’s debts using assets from the estate, then distributes any money or items left according to the will or state law. On the surface, this process seems simple, but there are a number of state laws directing how you must navigate these procedures. Unless there is a trust in place to ensure friends and family members receive access to the assets they inherit, probate court proceedings, which can take months, are necessary. Planning ahead is the best way to ensure the distribution of assets goes according to your loved one’s wishes.
Why should I choose Jackson, Landrith & Kulesz, PC for my estate planning needs?
Our estate planning attorneys at Jackson, Landrith & Kulesz, PC are dedicated to helping our clients. We handle all the legal aspects of your case so you can focus on what truly matters to you. We are also here to guide you through this complicated process. We will work with you for as much time is necessary for you to get to a point where you fully understand all aspects of your case.
If you need help with an estate planning matter, we are here to help. Call our Arlington office at 817-226-1100 today to schedule a time to meet with an estate planning attorney.
