Wills & Estate Law
In this world, nothing can be said to be certain except death and taxes. -- Benjamin Franklin
And, for most of us in the 21st century United States of America, incapacity before death. Death is, of course, the ultimate incapacity. It used to be that people died, and the Last Will and Testament took over. But failure to plan for that increasingly-likely situation, mental incompetance lasting months to years before death finally closes all is asking to waste thousands of dollars and much emotion on a guardianship which could have been avoided by proper planning while still competant.
Or what about that situation in the borderlands between life and death, the physical functions of the body being sustained artificially after the ego, the history, the color and flavor of the personality -- everything which makes you you -- has departed? Is this the future you desire?
Our staff will take a strategic approach to identify your needs and work to develop a tailored legal solution. We will take the time to understand your current financial situation, your long-term goals, and the needs of your family. Using various estate planning tools, we can create a comprehensive, tailored estate plan that meets your objectives.
We can create a Will to leave an estate to your spouse or designate a power of attorney should you become incapacitated. We can set up a trust for your children designated for college or a home down payment. Whether you have significant assets or a smaller estate, you can make arrangements to protect your beneficiaries.
We are experienced with all of the following:
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Wills
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Trusts
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Durable Powers of Attorney (medical and financial)
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Directive to Physicians ("living will")
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Estates
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other advance directives
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nontestamentary transfers
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Probate
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Guardianship
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Deeds
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Real estate transactions
Avoid a Potential Estate Planning Catastrophe
Many people assume that once they sign their estate planning documents everything is taken care of. Many people assume all of their bank accounts, investments and insurance policies will be distributed according to their last will and testament, but this may not be the case. There are many options for accounts, 401k's insurance and bank accounts. These types of accounts, including checking accounts, life insurance, retirement portfolios and IRAs, often require a beneficiary designation when they are established. Or if you have created a trust, that they be notified of the trust creation. Even if your wishes are clear in your will, the individual(s) you name at that time may not receive the funds from the account when you die. It is always a good idea to check with a professional to determine what type of accounts you own and how to effectively distribute them, so please call us today and set an appointment in either our Lewisville or Bedford location to speak with the attorney.