Estate Planning

It’s never too early to start estate planning. Whether you’re young and just starting out or approaching retirement, having a plan in place ensures your wishes are honored. Major life events like marriage, having children, or acquiring significant assets are particularly important times to create or update your estate plan.

A will is a legal document that outlines how you want your assets distributed after death and goes through probate. A trust is a legal entity that holds your assets and can distribute them without probate, potentially saving time and money. Trusts also offer more privacy and can provide asset protection during your lifetime.

Estate planning costs vary depending on the complexity of your situation and the documents needed. A basic will might cost less than a comprehensive plan with trusts. However, the cost of proper estate planning is typically far less than the expenses your family might face without proper planning. We offer transparent pricing and will discuss all costs during your initial consultation.

You should review your estate plan every 3-5 years or after major life events such as marriage, divorce, birth of children, significant asset changes, or changes in tax laws. Regular reviews ensure your plan continues to reflect your current wishes and circumstances.

If you die without a will (intestate), state law determines how your assets are distributed, which may not align with your wishes. The probate process becomes more complicated, potentially more expensive, and can cause stress for your loved ones. Having an estate plan ensures you maintain control over these important decisions.