Wills and trusts
Wills, trusts and powers of attorney
A plan is a few documents that say who gets what, who's in charge of handing it out, and who speaks for you if you're sick. We write them in sentences you can read, then sit with you while you sign.
What goes into most plans
Not everyone needs all four. At the first meeting we'll say which ones fit, and why.
A will
Names who receives what you leave, who carries it out, and who would raise your children.
A revocable living trust
Holds the house and accounts so they pass to your family without a probate case.
A financial power of attorney
Lets someone you chose pay bills, file taxes and talk to the bank if you can't.
A health care power of attorney
Names who talks to doctors for you, and puts your wishes about care in writing.
Questions about planning
Do I need a trust, or is a will enough?
It depends on what you own and where it's titled. Many people with a house and a retirement account do fine with a will and good beneficiary forms; others save their family a court case with a trust. We'll tell you which, and the difference in cost.
What does it mean to fund a trust?
Moving things into it: a new deed for the house, and new titles or beneficiaries on accounts. A trust that was never funded doesn't do its job, so we prepare the deed and give you a checklist for the rest.
How often should a plan be updated?
Look at it after a marriage, divorce, birth, death or move, and otherwise every few years. Small changes are usually an amendment, not a new plan.
Ready to start your plan?
Bring a list of what you own and who you'd want in charge. That's enough for a first meeting.