Estate Planning

A will is one legal document that everyone needs, but it is only the starting point for a modern estate plan. A typical estate plan consists not only of a will, but also a living trust and Powers of Attorney for Property and Health Care.

Not everyone looks forward to the process of estate planning, but we work to make it as straightforward and simple as we can. We take the time to explain fully, to make sure you understand, and are comfortable with, exactly what your documents will do. A completed estate plan is a gift to those who follow you, and to your own peace of mind, regardless of the monetary value of your assets.

Your estate planning documents will go beyond just “death and (estate) taxes”. We will assist you in crafting your comprehensive estate plan, tailored to your unique goals, interests, family situation, asset type and values, and all other aspects of your life’s legacy. This will help you and your family manage your affairs with as little stress as possible.

We also have extensive experience helping clients with significant assets plan to minimize or eliminate estate taxes, achieve current tax savings, and provide for future generations. This can include planning with gifts, life insurance, charitable gifts, private foundations, and other sophisticated techniques. Clients with family or closely-held businesses will also receive assistance with Business Succession Planning to ensure a smooth transition for the business while preserving value.

Please contact us to discuss estate planning strategies where we can assist you, including:

• Wills
• Living Trusts
• Powers of Attorney for Property
• Powers of Attorney for Healthcare
• Estate Tax Planning
• 401k and Retirement Account Planning
• Handling Closely Held Business Interests
• Appraisals and Valuation Discounts
• Planning for Unique Assets
• Succession Planning
• Gift Tax Planning
• Generation Skipping Tax Planning
• Life Insurance Planning
• Irrevocable Trusts
• Private Foundations
• Dynasty Trusts
• Premarital/Prenuptial and Post-marital Agreements
• Planning for Blended Families
• Out of State Real Estate
• Land Trusts