ESTATE PLANNING

A health care proxy is a document that names someone you trust as your proxy, or agent, to express your wishes and make health care decisions for you if you are unable to speak for yourself. A healthcare proxy may also be called a durable medical power of attorney or an appointment of a healthcare agent or healthcare surrogate. Naming a proxy can help ensure that you get the health care you prefer in the event that you cannot communicate your wishes. We can let you know what are your best options.

Probate is the legal process for distributing your property after you die. Your estate executor or attorney typically initiates probate. During this process, a probate court validates your will, authorizes your executor to distribute your estate to your beneficiaries, and pays any taxes your estate may owe. Although probate is often straightforward, many people want to avoid it.In some cases, it can take years for a probate court to finalize an estate, especially if it's complicated or involves a contested will.

The Living Trust is an important option available to those who would like to avoid placing certain assets or resources into probate. Also known as a revocable trust, the Living Trust is created as a method that allows a person to manage assets during their lifetime and instruct the distribution of assets after death. Typically, the person constructing the Living Trust, also known as the "grantor," has full access to the Trust while alive and may withdraw from it as needed.