Every person has to leave this world at some point. Some people leave sooner while many are lucky enough to live much longer. But at the end, everyone has to eventually leave this world. It is good to think ahead and plan how your estate will be handled after your death. Throughout our lifetimes, we collect a wide range of valuable properties and artifacts, which are given away to people after our demise. To ensure that your estate is divided among people according to your wishes, it is imperative that you prepare proper documentation with the assistance of a reputable estate planning lawyer. Generally, most people pass over their estate to their children or next of kin while some desire to donate their possessions to charities so that people would remember them for their philanthropy.
What does your Estate Include?
Quite a lot of people confuse estate planning with real estate planning. In reality, your estate is not just limited to your real estate properties. It includes each and everything you own and even the debts you owe. All your worldly possessions, assets and even liabilities fall under your estate. Even small articles, such as your wristwatch, jewelry or home appliances are part of your estate. Therefore, it is imperative that you take into account every aspect of your financial assets and liabilities while preparing your will.
How can an Estate Planning lawyer help you?
The documents prepared during estate planning will determine how your estate will be handled and divided after you are gone. Even a slight oversight in your documentation can lead to legal complications and issues, which could potentially hinder the division of your estate according to your wishes. By acquiring the services of a reputable and experienced estate planning lawyer, you can ensure that all the documentation is done in cogent and legal manner. The primary document prepared during estate planning is a Last Will and Testament. The Will is a legally binding document containing all the details regarding your estate and the manner you wish it to be handled and distributed. Other typical estate planning documents include a general durable power of attorney (in which give another power over your affairs during your lifetime if you become unable to manage your own affairs); a Living Will (by which you direct your doctor to take you off life support at the end of your life); and a Healthcare Power of Attorney (in which you give authority to another to make health care decisions for you if you become unable to do so for yourself).
If you wish to get more information about this topic, contact the offices of John Grundy at 330-637-9030 to schedule a free consultation with an experienced estate planning lawyer.