Estate planning is the process through which individuals anticipate and make arrangements for the management and disposition of their estates during their lifetimes and after death. Wills and trusts allow for the orderly settlement of estates and assist to minimize death taxes, while at the same time assuring that a Testator’s (will maker’s) intentions for the disposition of his or her estate are effectuated. These documents also provide protection and security to surviving spouses and descendants when a beloved spouse or parent passes. Powers of Attorney and Advance Health Care Directives and Proxies allow individuals to select agents to act on their behalf and for their benefit for personal, medical and financial matters when they may not be able to do so for themselves due to physical or mental limitations. Having these “lifetime” documents in place avoids the time and expense, and often emotional stress, of a loved one having to file court proceedings for guardianship.
We welcome the opportunity to counsel you on your estate planning desires. Please contact us if we can be of assistance or call (856) 428-2266.