Estate Planning & Wills

Can't I just write my own will?

The simple answer is "yes," but you may omit critical provisions which would make the probate of your will much easier and less expensive on your family. In my practice I have been called on to probate many wills which were prepared without the benefit of legal counsel, and because of ambiguities within the instrument or the omission of critical provisions, the family always incurred higher legal bills to overcome the problems caused by "self-lawyering." A properly drafted will is ultimately less expensive to probate. And I can assist you in formulating a plan which will leave your estate to your loved ones and charities, avoid the pitfalls of preparing your own will, and also sidestep unnecessary attorney's fees to probate your will.

What type of estate planning tools do I need?

Estate planning may be basic or complex depending on your goals and your possessions. Revocable living trusts may be appropriate for you, or wills may better fit your immediate goals. But in addition to a trust or a will, you should have a power of attorney for business and tax matters, a power of attorney for health care and medical decisions, and a clear directive for your family stating your decision on whether or not to prolong your life in the event of a terminal illness or accident. I regularly prepare these documents for my clients which accomplish these basic goals.

Every client's estate planning goals are unique. 

Many of my client’s estate planning goals are unique, or at least different in some way because of family dynamics. Wills and revocable living trusts each present different advantages or disadvantages — depending on the client's individual perspective, needs and goals. I’m available to listen to your story, explain the differences between the two basic estate planning tools (wills and revocable living trusts), and then let you choose which one best fits your individual needs, goals and budget.