Estate Planning

When someone passes away, his or her property must somehow pass to another person. In the United States, any competent adult has the right to choose the manner in which his or her assets are distributed after his or her passing.

(The main exception to this general rule involves what is called a spousal right of election which disallows the complete disinheritance of a spouse in most states.) A proper estate plan also involves strategies to minimize potential estate taxes and settlement costs as well as to coordinate what would happen with your home, your investments, your business, your life insurance, your employee benefits (such as a 401K plan), and other property in the event of death or disability. On the personal side, a good estate plan should include directions to carry out your wishes regarding health care matters, so that if ever you are unable to give the directions yourself, someone you know and trust can do that for you.

Senior male and female with silver hair, meeting with lawyer to setup estate and trust

Related Blogs

Understanding Estate Assets and the Role of a Lawyer in Estate Planning

August 12, 2024

When it comes to estate planning, understanding what assets comprise your estate and how a lawyer can assist you is crucial. Proper estate planning ensures that your wishes are honored and that your loved ones are taken care of after you’re gone. Here, we'll explore what assets typically go into an estate and the ways in which a lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in managing and planning your estate.

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Getting Your Estate Plan In Order

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One of the things that people hold dear is the welfare of their families. Everyone wants to know that their loved ones will be taken care of upon their death. Estate law is the entire system dedicated to taking care of that process.