Estate Planning |
◇ Assisting clients in creating legally valid wills that outline how their assets should be distributed upon their death.
◇ Establishing various types of trusts, such as revocable living trusts, irrevocable trusts, and special needs trusts, to manage and protect assets.
◇ Helping clients with Powers of Attorney and the designation of individuals to make financial and healthcare decisions on their behalf in case they become incapacitated.
◇ Advising regarding advance healthcare directives, including the specification of medical preferences and the appointment of a healthcare proxy, to make medical decisions if necessary.
Estate Administration |
◇ Helping the executor or personal representative of the estate navigate the legal process of probate after an individual passes away, which involves validating the will and overseeing the distribution of assets.
◇ Guiding the executor through inventorying the deceased person's assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to beneficiaries according to the will or state laws if there's no will.
Minimizing Taxes |
◇ Helping clients develop strategies to minimize estate taxes and maximize the inheritance that beneficiaries receive.
Asset Protection |
◇ Providing advice on protecting assets from potential creditors, lawsuits, and other threats, which may include the use of trusts and other legal mechanisms.
Specialized Planning |
◇ Working with clients to address specific needs or concerns, such as planning for a disabled family member, charitable giving, or business succession planning.
Litigation |
◇ Representing clients in cases where disputes arise over the validity of a will or the distribution of assets.
Document Updates |
◇ Encouraging clients to review and update their estate planning documents as their life circumstances change, ensuring that the plan remains relevant and legally effective.
How do you help clients navigate disputes among beneficiaries?
“I educate my clients about choices and offer a package of recommendations. I help clients understand that what the estate is worth - money, assets with value attached to them - is a defined and shrinking volume of assets, unless new ones arise.”
“Helping clients understand the consequences of choices - even if those are driven by emotion - is a primary focus of mine in all of my practice areas.”