Estate Planning Practice

Estate planning is something many us put off because it is an unpleasant subject.  However, we all work very hard during our lifetime to provide for ourselves and our loved ones, and we want to ensure they will be taken care of in the future.  With an appropriate estate plan, we can ensure that our loved ones will continue to be provided for in the future.  It will give you and your loved ones peace of mind. 

Simply stated, an estate is the total property an individual owns prior to distribution at death.  Real property is simly real estate and personal property includes all other tangible and intangible assets such as furniture, automobiles, stocks and bonds, as well as bank accounts.  Estate planning is the process by which an individual or family arranges the transfer of assets in anticipation of death. An estate plan aims to preserve the maximum amount of wealth possible for the intended beneficiaries and flexibility for the individual prior to death.  Thus, a very important aspect of estate planning are to avoid unnecessary state and federal estate taxes.  Another often overlooked aspect of estate planning for business owners is business succession planning to ensure that your business can continue to operate effectively.

How We Serve Our Clients

Wills and trusts are common ways in which individuals dispose of their estates.  Trusts have the benefit of avoiding probate, a lengthy and costly legal process that oversees the transfer of assets.  If you die intestate (without a will or trust), your real and personal property will be distributed in accordance with the intestate laws of your state.  This distribution many be very different than your desires so it is imperative to execute a will or trust.  The experienced professionals at firm will work with you, as well as your accountant, financial planner, and associated professionals to ensure that your wishes are carried out.