Estate planning isn’t just something the elderly or the very wealthy need to worry about. Every competent California resident over the age of 18, regardless of health status, age or accumulated assets, should take an active role in planning for what will happen to their affairs in the event of future incapacity, and at their deaths.

When you take the time to legally document your wishes, you are in control and can have the peace of mind that comes from knowing your wishes will be carried out.

The process of estate planning involves more than just writing a will. Everyone’s situation, goals and priorities are different, so the best estate planning strategies and tools will depend on your specific circumstances. Common estate planning goals include the following:

• Planning to avoid probate court. If the goal is to make the process of administering your estate easier, your attorney may recommend revocable trusts, coordinated beneficiary designations, and other strategies designed to minimize the time and expense that can come with settling an estate.

• Naming a guardian for minor children. Using legal documents, you can nominate someone to have physical custody of your minor children, if you and your child’s other parent were to become incapacitated or die prematurely.

• Planning for distribution of assets. Using trust instruments is a great way to protect a child from having control of a large sum of money at a young age, and protect from potential creditors, rather than leaving a lump-sum inheritance that may be difficult to manage and provides no creditor protection.

• Making charitable bequests. Estate planning is a great way to formalize a plan to benefit your favorite non-profit organizations.

Other reasons to formalize your wishes through estate planning include naming a health care agent to speak for you during periods of incapacity, giving someone financial power of attorney over your affairs, providing liquidity to pay estate taxes, providing for children from a previous marriage, and more.

Secure a financially sound future for you and your loved ones by partnering with us. At our firm you can be sure that your satisfaction will always be our first priority. We will be your trusted advisor at every step of the process. Our services are available at competitive prices and do not involve any hidden costs.  We are here to guide you through the difficult decisions that will protect your family after your passing. Contact us today to get started!