Estate Planning:
Estate Planning Guidance: Navigating the Future with Confidence
Estate plans are dynamic, requiring regular attention to remain effective. They are not just documents to be stored away, but living arrangements that must be nurtured to ensure they function as intended when needed. For example, a Durable Power of Attorney listing a deceased family member is ineffective in times of crisis.
While we don't offer legal advice or draft legal documents, our role in estate planning is crucial. Oftentimes, if attorneys are not made aware of all your assets, it can limit their ability to provide prudent legal advice. We work collaboratively with you and your attorney to illustrate and understand the estate plan that has been crafted. We can provide you with a comprehensive snapshot of your assets to make the most of your time with your estate attorney, ensuring you get comprehensive legal advice. This collaborative approach helps ensure that your estate plan aligns seamlessly with your financial goals and family needs.
For many, the prospect of federal estate taxes isn't a concern, but in states like Washington, it's essential to work with an attorney familiar with the state estate taxes and can include essential language to assist with sheltering assets from the WA estate taxes. In states like CA, probate can be extremely expensive as the costs are based on a percentage of one's assets, something as simple as a living trust can take this off the table. Essentially, you cannot go back in time to put these in place.
If you're unsure where to begin, we have an extensive network of trusted attorneys we can refer you to. Recognizing that estate planning is more than just drafting a will, we help you consider all aspects, including appointing trusted individuals for financial or medical decisions if you're unable to make them yourself.
We understand that thinking about estate planning can be challenging, but it's a vital step in securing your legacy and ensuring your wishes are respected. Let us guide you through this important process.
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"It is better to be prepared for an opportunity and not have one than to have an opportunity and not be prepared." - Whitney M. Young Jr.
