An estate plan, also known as a will, should be an essential step for those with significant property, children or other loved ones. A will outlines how someone wants their property distributed after death, naming someone to carry out these instructions. A will can also reduce or avoid estate taxes altogether by setting up trusts to shield beneficiaries from creditors and divorce, and make probate easier by eliminating bonds altogether. An experienced attorney can prepare customized wills tailored specifically to each client’s situation – in addition to living wills, advance healthcare directives and power of attorney documents regarding healthcare and finances respectively as joint or reciprocal wills as joint or reciprocal wills as joint wills.
Though it can be morbid to contemplate death and its resulting distribution of one’s property, planning ahead for its distribution is essential for adults. A will is designed to ensure your assets pass to those and charities of your choosing and are distributed according to your wishes; lawyers can create trusts to shield assets from creditors and avoid taxes consequences, designate guardians for minor children, name an executor to oversee your estate and settle debts, among other useful services.
Wills must be signed by both the testator and two witnesses who are disinterested in any benefit that accrues from it. A lawyer can provide you with all of the appropriate forms and guide you through this process of signing. Ideally, keep a copy in a safe location where it can be quickly found after death.
Be sure to get a free consultation and compare prices before selecting a will lawyer. Many estate planning lawyers offer flat fees that could save you money; these may include meeting or phone consultation as well as the drafting basic estate documents such as wills. Some attorneys will even inquire into your family, assets and preferences so as to create tailored documents tailored specifically for you and your circumstances.
If a will is improperly executed, it can be nullified by the court. Revocation options include adding codicils or filing residuary clauses with the will that designate someone to receive any remaining assets not covered under other provisions in its contents. It is wise to seek legal advice from an experienced Dade City wills lawyer.
Wills lawyers offer much more than legal document drafting services; they also assist with estate administration and probate proceedings. Their assistance may include the transfer of ownership for real and personal property, settlement of debts, designating guardians for children and funeral arrangements. Without a will in place, an estate will be handled according to state laws which could lead to unintended results and costly legal battles; an experienced wills lawyer from Dade City can help your family settle this estate according to your specific goals and needs.
