An estate planning attorney is a lawyer who can provide insight into the best way to plan for your future, whether by establishing a will, setting up a trust, or figuring out what kind of
An estate planning attorney is a lawyer who can provide insight into the best way to plan for your future, whether by establishing a will, setting up a trust, or figuring out what kind of documents you need in case you become disabled. They can guide you through ensuring that your affairs are appropriately taken care of so that your wishes are executed after you’re gone, and they can help you ensure that your assets stay in the hands of the people you want them to go to. It’s important to note that an estate planning attorney isn’t the same as a probate attorney. An estate planning attorney in Spokane focuses on helping you plan for your future and avoid going through probate court after your death.
What are the roles of an estate planning attorney?
Helps develop an estate plan
To ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes in the event of your death, there are several legal documents you can create with the help of an estate planning attorney. For example, you can draft a will that spells out exactly how you want to distribute your property and assets when you die.
You can also create a living trust which allows you to control where your property is distributed after you die without going through probate. Most people have never considered creating these legal documents, but it is essential to consider this before something happens to you and it’s too late. In addition, estate planning attorneys can help set up trusts for minors or disabled individuals and ensure all of these documents comply with the laws in the state where you live.
Designating your beneficiaries
One of the most important things you can do as part of your estate plan is to designate who gets what when you die. When you don’t have a will in place, state law dictates who inherits your assets. And it may not be the people or organizations you want to inherit them. An experienced estate planning attorney can help you create a customized plan that ensures your wishes are carried out as closely as possible after your death.
Avoiding probate process
Estate planning attorneys can help you avoid probate court proceedings by creating a living trust or revocable trust. These types of trusts allow you to designate who will manage your assets after your death and how they will be distributed. The process is much easier than going through probate court, which involves submitting paperwork and paying fees to an executor who oversees the distribution of your assets to beneficiaries named in the will.
Protecting against fraudulent claims
If someone tries to make false claims against your estate after your death, they may not get their hands on any money if they don’t know where it’s located or how much it is available for distribution according to your wishes. An estate plan prepared by an attorney prevents this from happening.
Key Takeaway
Estate planning attorneys are responsible for making sure your estate is divided as you wish, with the correct people receiving your possessions and money. An attorney can ensure that your intentions are carried out in the event of your death and help you prepare for and anticipate what will happen should you become disabled.