• A Will only governs disposition of assets that a person owns in his or her individual name (i.e. assets that are not owned jointly).
• A Will does not govern disposition of assets that are governed by a beneficiary designation or other designation by contract that establishes where those assets would go at death (i.e. payable on death and transfer on death assets).
• A Will takes effect when you die, not the day it is signed.
• A Will states how certain assets are passed and names beneficiaries.
• A Will can appoint an executor, name a guardian for minor children, and direct the distribution of estate assets.
• A Will cannot make directions upon incapacity.
• If you or a loved one dies without a Will, assets owned will pass under a set of laws that are established in the state in which you live.

• Trusts can be drafted in many ways and can specify how and when the assets pass to the beneficiaries.
• Trusts can help you ensure that your assets are distributed and managed according to your wishes.
• Trusts are helpful in certain circumstances, including to avoid guardianship or conservatorship during life in the event of a settlor's incapacity and to manage and transfer the settlor's assets during incapacity and after death. Trusts may also create other benefits such as tax efficiencies.
• There are several different types of Trusts, including:
• Testamentary Trusts (created in a will after someone dies);
• Irrevocable Trusts (usually cannot be changed); and
• Revocable/Living Trusts, among others.

• The Power of Attorney for Health Care will allow the person you designate as your agent to make health care decisions for you. You may express your wishes or desires regarding your health care in the Power of Attorney.
• In the Power of Attorney for Property you will give a named individual power to act in financial matters with respect to property held in your individual name.

• Coaching sessions are helpful if you are interested in learning more about the estate planning process but you are not yet prepared to commit to the entire process.
• Coaching sessions are also helpful if you have an existing estate plan and would like advice on your documents and whether they need updating.
• Our coaching and review sessions are between 60-90 minutes. During this session, we will discuss specific questions you have, flag issues that you need to be aware of, and advise you on next steps to consider in your estate planning process.

• Filing of a petition with the proper probate court
• Notice to heirs under the will or to statutory heirs (if no will exists)
• Petition to Appoint Executor of the Estate
• Inventory and appraisal of estate assets by Executor/Administrator
• Payment of estate debt to creditors
• Sale of estate assets
• Payment of estate taxes, if applicable
• Final distribution of assets to heirs

In addition to core estate planning services, we offer complex estate planning services including:

• Irrevocable Trusts, including Life Insurance Trusts (ILITs) and Gift Trusts;
• Specialized planning for professionals in higher-risk occupations; and
• Charitable planning to achieve philanthropic and financial goals