Having a comprehensive and up-to-date estate plan is vital to the present and future of all involved parties. Not only will these plans determine what happens to your property after your death, but they can also bring significant tax advantages and peace of mind.
Traditional estate planning consisted of little more than a will. While these documents are still a vital portion of the process, more modern trusts can bring increased flexibility and financial benefits. Every person’s needs are unique: fortunately, a skilled estate planning attorney could help you meet yours. Additionally, a Rosemead trust and estates lawyer could help you identify your goals and create a plan that makes those goals a reality.
How to Create a Comprehensive Estate Plan
An estate plan describes what a person wants to happen to their property after they die. However, it can also involve the immediate transfer of assets into a trust. These documents combine to create an estate plan that carries a full legal effect as well as significant financial advantages.
The core of most estate plans is a will. According to California Probate Code § 6110, a will must be in writing, contain the testator’s signature, and include the signatures of two witnesses. In addition to a will, any one with more than $100,000 or one house, should create a trust. In a trust, you can appoint a trustee to help manage your assets if you become incapacitated or upon your passing. The trust can also designate when your trustee should distribute trust assets to the beneficiaries. Depending on your situation, there are many provisions that can be included in your trust to address your family’s needs. A patient Rosemead attorney could work with individuals to identify their specific trust and estate needs and help draft proper documentation.
Helping Guide Parties Through the Probate Process
Effective probate work does not end with the creation of an estate plan. Many people find that their need for legal assistance only becomes apparent when they learn that they are an heir in a will or have been named as an executor of an estate. Leading parties through the probate process is another way in which a Rosemead trust and estates attorney may be able to help.
Potential heirs must understand the law as it concerns their rights during probate. For example, the existence of a will may disinherit a person who may otherwise stand to receive property. Alternatively, parties named in wills may need to defend the authenticity of a document to receive assets.
Executors may also require legal assistance, as these individuals have an obligation under the law to comply with court orders, pay off a decedent’s debts, and distribute property according to the terms of the will.
Contact a Trust and Estates Attorney in Rosemead to Learn More
Estate planning is a vital part of life. Any person with even minimal assets should consider what will happen to those assets after their death, as even having a rudimentary will could help heirs to retain control over the probate process. In addition, transferring property into a trust can avoid many of the complications that may arise during probate and could save thousands in probate costs.
A Rosemead trust and estates lawyer could help you by identifying your needs, suggesting estate planning documentation, and taking the necessary steps to create these documents with the intended legal effect. Reach out to our dedicated team to explore your trust and estate options.