Estate Planning

Estate planning is a two-part process. It starts with deciding who will receive your money and property after your death.  Even if you don't own much, your property has value to someone and your job is to make arrangements for the orderly transfer of ownership with minimum conflict.  Another concern is the need to protect property given to a beneficiary who is too young or too infirm to handle the responsibility. An additional concern is how to replace the time, money and effort you would have expended on behalf of dependent loved ones, including aged parents, had you survived.

We'll discuss all of these issues in light of what you own and who you want to benefit. Then we'll develop a distribution plan that preserves your legacy, fulfills your goals and meets your responsibilities.

The second part of the estate planning process involves deciding who will make decisions for you when you are too ill to participate meaningfully.  We'll talk about the characteristics of an effective financial and medical agent and any limitations you may want to impose on their decision making authority. We'll also discuss end-of-life choices and how best to communicate them to your providers and decision makers.

The process will culminate in a series of documents and beneficiary designations that embody your plan. Susan will work with you until the documents meet your approval, then assist you in executing them. She can also help inform your family, agents and providers of your plans.