Reasons to Hire an Estate Planning Attorney
A top Chicago estate planning attorney can help you make sure that the people who depend on you and your assets receive the care and benefits they deserve in the event of an accident or your death. This can involve assigning power of attorney, drafting a living will or creating other advance directives. A good estate planner can also ensure that your family doesn’t end up paying too much in taxes or being burdened by legal complications.
You may not think that you need an estate planning attorney, particularly if you’re young or don’t have many assets. However, the fact is that life is unpredictable and serious accidents or illnesses can strike at any time. A well-drafted estate plan can ensure that your wishes are carried out and minimize the possibility of legal disputes and litigation. The best way to choose an estate planning lawyer is to get a referral from someone you trust, like a friend or family member. However, you should also do some research to find an attorney that specializes in the area of law in which you need help. Local and state bar associations usually provide lists of qualified attorneys in your area, while the internet is a valuable tool for researching attorneys’ fees, experience, and reputations.
Hiring an Estate Planning Attorney
Estate planning is a necessary process for everyone. Even if you don’t have many assets, you may want to give specific instructions about how your money and property should be distributed to friends, family members or charitable organizations. And if you have a business, an estate planning attorney can help you with issues related to business succession and ownership transfer.
Besides ensuring that your wishes are documented, a top estate planning attorney can help you minimize the cost of probate, protect your privacy and prevent conflict. Probate can last more than a year, and it’s open to the public, so your private documents could become accessible to creditors and other parties who may seek to contest your will or estate plan.
An estate planning lawyer can ensure that your beneficiaries get the benefit of your hard work without a lot of extra costs, delay and loss of privacy. They can also help you understand and use the various trust options available to you.
The best estate planning attorney will take the time to learn your family dynamics and goals, then create a plan that’s right for you. They should also be easy to talk to and listen to, making the conversation less stressful and more comfortable.
If you’re ready to start the estate planning process or want to discuss your existing estate plan, contact Davis & Associates Attorneys at Law. We can set up a free initial consultation where we will explore your wants, needs and assets and recommend some options. We are a compassionate, experienced and dedicated law firm that is here to assist you. Call us today to schedule an appointment! We serve clients throughout Illinois, including Chicago IL.