What Happens Upon Your Death or Disability Will Be Decided by You or a Court—the Choice Is Yours
If you want control over your own destiny, then consider the wisdom of estate planning. Some may feel that estate planning is only for the “rich and famous.”That is simply untrue. Estate planning is necessary for everyone. Your planning needs will vary according to the value and type of assets you own, along with your desires.
Just as every person is unique, no two estate plans are the same. A young married couple will want to determine a guardian for their minor child. An older couple may need tax planning. Others may wish to ensure privacy or make a gift to a local charity. Only an experienced attorney specializing in estate planning can help you make the correct choices that best meet your individual situation.
How Epiphany Law Can Help
Estate planning is the process of planning for the inevitable. It guides what happens when you are unable to act for yourself due to death or disability. Only through careful planning and preparation with an experienced attorney will you achieve success in your estate plan. Your estate plan must take into account not only the type and size of your assets, but also relevant legal and tax issues. Similarly, an appropriate plan considers the best interests of you and your beneficiaries.
Epiphany Law helps clients plan for the transition from one generation to the next and beyond. Our experienced estate planning attorneys provide legal expertise and, most importantly, peace of mind.
Questions & Answers
Q: What is estate planning?
A: Estate planning is the process of creating a set of documents to be used at your death or if you become disabled. The documents make your wishes known as to where you want your assets to go. They also provide information as to what type of life-sustaining efforts you desire. Each person’s estate plan is different depending upon his or her circumstances, desires, concerns and assets. An estate plan may consist of any of the following: a will, revocable living trust, healthcare power of attorney, advanced medical directive or other types of documents.
Q: Do I need an estate plan?
A: Yes! At a minimum, if an appropriate estate plan is not created your property will be distributed according to archaic laws rather than according to your wishes. Equally important, a proper estate plan will save you and your heirs money, time and headaches.
Q: Can I use forms I found online or at an office supply store?
A: Absolutely not! The problem with a do-it-yourself plan is: you don’t know what you don’t know. Proper estate planning involves complex tax and legal issues with which most attorneys and accountants are not familiar. Doing your own estate plan is simply a recipe for disaster.
Q: Are there any special life circumstances making estate planning even more critical?
A: Yes. Here are a few: minor children, a loved one with a disability, second marriages, unmarried couples, ownership of a second home, ownership of a business and retirement benefits. Only an estate planning attorney can advise you how to handle your unique circumstances.