Writing a will is one of those life chores that everyone knows they need, but surprisingly few people get around to doing it. If you have been putting off talking to a lawyer about an estate plan, now is the time to learn about your options for protecting your family if you suddenly die or become incapacitated.
Depending on your income level, assets, and goals, attorney Ben Patton will help you create an estate plan that meets your unique needs. Don’t wait any longer to put your wishes down on paper and get the peace of mind you deserve. Schedule your free consultation in our Tallahassee office today.
Why Everyone Needs a Last Will and Testament
Regardless of your age or net worth, you should have a will to ensure that your wishes are carried out after you pass away. Some of the most important reasons to have a will include the following:
- Control over asset distribution. A will allows you to specify how you want your assets distributed after you die. Without a will, your estate will be distributed according to state law, which may not align with your wishes.
- Choice of executor. With a will, you can choose an executor to manage your estate and carry out your wishes. Without a will, the court will appoint an executor for you.
- Guardianship of minor children. If you have minor children, a will allows you to name a guardian to care for them in the event of your death. Without a will, the court will determine who will take care of your children.
- Avoiding family disputes. Having a clear and concise will can help avoid family disputes and legal battles over your estate.
- Peace of mind. Knowing that your affairs are in order and that your wishes will be carried out can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.
Who Could Benefit From a Revocable Living Trust
- With significant assets or complex estates. A revocable living trust can be particularly useful for individuals with significant assets or complex estates, as it allows them to transfer assets to their beneficiaries while avoiding probate.
- With minor children. A revocable living trust can be used to specify how assets should be managed for minor children in the event of the grantor’s death.
- Who want privacy. Unlike a will, a revocable living trust is not a matter of public record, which can be appealing to individuals who value privacy.
- Who may become incapacitated. A revocable living trust can include provisions for the management of assets in the event that the grantor becomes incapacitated.
- Avoiding probate. A revocable living trust can help beneficiaries avoid the time and expense of probate court proceedings.
- Reducing estate taxes. By using a revocable living trust, individuals may be able to reduce estate taxes.
- Protecting assets. A revocable living trust can be used to protect assets from creditors or lawsuits.
- Offering flexibility. Revocable living trusts can be amended or revoked at any time, allowing for flexibility in estate planning.
We Get to Know You First
Because Ben came to estate planning law after experiencing a family crisis that left him reeling, he is focused on getting to know his clients on a personal level so that he can create a custom estate plan that meets all of their goals. He doesn’t take shortcuts or use cookie-cutter documents. Instead, he tailors each client’s plan to be comprehensive yet cost-effective for them. If you are ready to take the first step towards protecting your family and your assets with an estate plan, contact us today.
