Wills & Trusts

Simply put, a will is a document that tells the world how you wish to have your property divided upon your passing.  You appoint an “executor/executrix” who is tasked with making sure that the provisions of your will are carried out properly.  You also appoint a guardian for minor children, set up trusts for future generations, and make gifts to charity.

Powers of Attorney

A power of attorney allows you to appoint someone else to make personal and legal decisions for you if cannot make them yourself due to illness or other incapacity. You do not lose the ability to make your own decisions if you sign a power of attorney, and your agent is not required to act on your behalf.  However, if your agent does take an action for you, he or she is required to act in your best interests and account for his or her actions.

Estate Administration

Our legal team understands the stress and uncertainty that comes with the death of a loved one. Every day we help families deal with all of the legal issues surrounding the passing of a family member. We help you with all aspects of administering an estate.   We begin the process by helping you file your loved one’s will with the court and assist with the passing of assets, including bank accounts, real estate, and stocks and bonds. We perform all of the legal and accounting tasks that are necessary to finalize the estate, including the preparation of an inheritance tax return and any federal estate tax returns, if necessary.

Living Wills

A living will tells your doctors your wishes if you become in a state of permanent unconsciousness or have a terminal illness. You have the ability to appoint an individual to help the doctors make decisions called a “surrogate.”

Long Term Care

Finally, long-term care is of primary concern to many of our aging clients and their families. Our team can help you and your loved ones understand the complicated Medicaid regulations and come up with a plan for financing long-term nursing care, keeping in mind your desire to pass your hard-earned property to the next generation.