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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Estate planning is the process of organizing your assets, medical wishes, and personal affairs to ensure they’re handled according to your wishes both during your life and after your death. Without a plan, the state decides how your assets are distributed, which may not reflect your intentions.

  • Everyone, regardless of age or wealth. Whether you own property, have children, or simply want your healthcare preferences respected, an estate plan provides peace of mind and legal clarity.

  • A solid plan often includes a will, a trust, power of attorney documents, healthcare directives, and named beneficiaries on financial accounts.

  • A will outlines how your assets are distributed but must go through probate (the court process of validating your will and settling your estate), which can be time-consuming, expensive, and public. A trust allows assets to be managed privately and passed directly to your heirs, avoiding probate altogether. Since trusts avoid probate, they can save time, reduce stress, and keep your affairs confidential.

  • Yes. A will (often a “pour-over” will) captures any assets not transferred into the trust and can appoint guardians for minor children. Think of it as a safety net for any assets that were not transferred to the trust or overlooked.

  • If you pass away without a plan, state laws determine who inherits your property. The process can be lengthy, stressful for loved ones, and may result in outcomes you wouldn’t have chosen.

  • Probate is the legal process of settling your estate after death. It can take time and cost money. Setting up a trust or using beneficiary designations can help avoid it.

  • A power of attorney gives someone legal authority to act on your behalf, often for financial or health decisions if you can’t make them yourself.

  • This is a document where you state your medical care preferences in case you’re seriously ill and can’t speak for yourself. You can also name someone to make decisions for you.

  • Not as costly as the mistakes that can happen without one. We offer flexible, transparent pricing and customized solutions to fit your needs and budget.