There are SO many important reasons to have an Estate Plan. It provides peace of mind and ensures that your wishes are carried out.
You’ve worked hard for what you have, so why not make the decisions now? Having an estate plan allows you to maintain control over your assets, provide for your loved ones, and make decisions regarding your healthcare and legacy. At Jill Leopold Law, we can help you avoid potential legal complications and ensure that your wishes are carried out while minimizing taxes. Here is a list of items that we can help with:
Asset Distribution:
One of the primary reasons for having an estate plan is to ensure the orderly distribution of assets upon the individual's death. This can include financial assets, real estate, personal belongings, and more. Without a plan, the distribution may be subject to state laws, which might not align with the individual's wishes.
Minimizing Taxes:
Estate planning can also help minimize taxes that may be imposed on the transfer of assets to heirs. Through various legal strategies, individuals can reduce the impact of estate and inheritance taxes, allowing more of their wealth to pass to their chosen beneficiaries.
Guardianship for Minor Children:
For individuals with minor children, an estate plan allows them to designate a guardian for their children in the event of their death. This ensures that the care and upbringing of their children are managed by someone they trust.
Avoiding Probate:
Estate planning can help in avoiding or minimizing the probate process, which is the legal process of validating a will. Probate can be time-consuming and expensive, and having a well-crafted estate plan can help streamline the transfer of assets without the need for court intervention.
Healthcare Decisions:
Estate planning often includes documents such as a living will and a healthcare power of attorney. These documents specify the individual's wishes regarding medical treatment and appoint someone to make healthcare decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated.
Business Succession Planning:
For business owners, estate planning is crucial for ensuring a smooth transition of business ownership in the event of their death or incapacitation. This can involve specifying who will take over the business or outlining a plan for its sale.
Charitable Giving:
Many people use estate planning as a way to support charitable causes they care about. This can involve setting up trusts or foundations to allocate a portion of their assets to charitable organizations.
Managing Debts:
An estate plan can help manage and settle debts after an individual's death. It ensures that debts are addressed appropriately and that there is a clear process for handling financial obligations.
You’ve worked hard to build a better future. We work hard to protect what you have – for you and your family. Give us a call and let Jill Leopold Law will help you preserve assets, secure care, and leave a legacy.
Additional Estate Planning Services
Probate Services
Probate is a legal process that occurs after someone passes away.
Nursing Home Protection
Protect what you’ve earned.
Wills
Secure your legacy with a meticulously crafted will – your personalized roadmap for peace of mind and legal clarity.
Trusts
Create a trust for a rock-solid plan that safeguards your assets and ensures your wishes are honored.
Powers of Attorney
Empower your loved ones with a personalized legal backup plan – peace of mind and seamless decision-making in times of need.