Estate planning can be intimidating, but with the assistance of an experienced estate planning attorney and a checklist, the task can become a little less daunting. Continue reading to discover the checklist for estate planning to ensure you will cover the most important documents. If you have any additional questions regarding this process, do not hesitate to reach out to our firm. We would be happy to schedule your initial consultation with us today.
Wills
A will is one of the most important documents to draft when beginning your estate planning process. Your will allows you to plan and outline what you desire to happen with your assets when you pass. You will be able to appoint an executor who will be in charge of ensuring your assets are distributed according to your will. You will also be able to establish beneficiaries who will receive those assets. Without a will, you may set your family up for legal issues down the road.
Trusts
The goal of a trust is to help your beneficiaries maximize their inheritance move through the probate process as quickly and seamlessly as possible.
Powers of Attorney
A power of attorney allows an appointed individual to make key life decisions on your behalf, should you ever become incapacitated. An example of this would be a financial power of attorney who will assist you in making critical financial decisions on your behalf, should not become unable to on your own. You can also create a healthcare power of attorney that will allow a trusted individual to make critical medical decisions on your behalf.
Guardianships
It is recommended that all parents of minor children create guardianships that will allow them to appoint someone they trust to raise their children, should they and their spouse be unable to. Without appointing a guardian, the courts will have the power to decide who raises their children.
If you require assistance drafting any of these important documents, it is recommended that you do so with the services of an experienced estate planning attorney on your side. Our knowledgeable estate planning attorney would be happy to walk you through the process of drafting these estate planning documents to check off every box on your checklist. Give our firm a call today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you.
Contact our experienced Montgomery County, Maryland firm
The attorneys at JD Katz have years of experience compassionately guiding clients in Maryland through the estate planning and administration process. Our firm also has experience with matters of elder law, business law, tax law, and litigation. For a legal team that will put your needs first, contact JD Katz today.
