Areas of Practice
Estate Planning
When we talk about estate planning, we’re talking about more than wills. We believe that comprehensive planning means making arrangements for emergencies and unforeseen circumstances during your lifetime, as well as arranging for the disposition of property after your death. Who will make medical decisions or handle your finances if you become unable to do so for any length of time? Who will take care of your minor children? And importantly, what mechanisms work best for your situation and your family to achieve your goals and carry out your wishes?
Estate planning is about taking care of your loved ones, and making sure your loved ones have the tools to take care of you. It is one of the kindest things you can do for your family, and we are honored to help guide you on this journey.
Young adults should have certain documents as well - if you have adult children ages 18-25, ask about our “New Adult” package to ensure you have a plan in place in case of emergency.
Probate
When a person passes away and did not make arrangements for the automatic disposition of their assets, probate is necessary to pass property on to the deceased person’s heirs or beneficiaries. Probate may be necessary regardless of whether or not your loved one executed a will.
In the probate process, we submit the person’s will (if any) to the court, ask that beneficiaries be determined, notify creditors and pay any claims, and distribute assets. The full process typically takes 6-12 months, though this can vary based on the size and complexity of the estate.
If your loved one has passed away and you have questions about probate, call for a consultation. We will be happy to review your situation in an unintimidating environment and help you determine whether, and to what extent, probate is necessary.
Trust Administration
Revocable trusts are a commonly used estate planning tool, and for good reason. Utilized and funded correctly, revocable trusts avoid probate proceedings and can be used to transfer assets easily, can serve as an alternative to guardianship, delay or stagger distributions to young beneficiaries, protect a disabled beneficiary’s benefits, the list goes on.
When the creator of a trust passes away and it comes time to divide the property, engaging an attorney experienced in trust administration can save successor trustees time and headaches. Whether you need assistance dealing with outstanding bills, preparing inventories and accountings, distributing assets, or managing ongoing trust responsibilities, we look forward to de-mystifying the process and guiding you through.
Guardianship
If an adult can no longer make some (or all) decisions about managing their property and caring for themselves, it may be necessary to petition the court to have a guardian appointed to step in and make these necessary decisions for their loved ones. The need might arise for a number of reasons: age-related dementia or traumatic brain injuries resulting from an auto accident, for example. Adults with certain developmental disabilities may also benefit from a guardian advocacy, a less restrictive process that focuses on supported decision-making.
Sometimes minor children inherit money from a relative or receive a settlement. If the award or inheritance exceeds a certain amount, a guardianship of minor property may be required.
If you believe that a loved one may require a guardian, do not hesitate to call for a consultation. This can be a difficult and stressful time for a family, and we are here to guide you through.
Corporate and Business Services
Are you starting a business? Buying or selling an existing venture? No matter where you are in your business journey, you’re in good hands with our transactional services. Whether you’re forming your company, in the thick of drafting and negotiating contracts, or moving forward with the purchase or sale of your business, transactional lawyering is where our heart is.