Los Alamitos Estate Planning Attorney
Today is the Day to Plan for Your Future
As you look toward your future, estate planning is an essential step. It can benefit your family in the future and you in the present day. Choosing not to have an estate plan leaves the burden on those left behind and can result in messy court battles. Without clear direction, a Probate judge may take control of your estate and force the sale of your home and other assets.
Don’t let the government have the final say in who inherits your property. Contact Law Offices of Kerry P. O'Brien at 562.308.0733 to get started with estate planning.
Living trusts allow you to maintain control of your property
A living trust gives a trustee the right to hold legal title to the property that will be left to your beneficiaries upon your death. In most cases, a person sets themselves up as their own trustee (as well as their spouse, if applicable) so that they maintain possession of their own property just as they would if it was not in a trust.
Upon your death or incapacitation, the property is then given to the successor trustee you named, without going through the process of probate court. We will set up a Trust Document for you that outlines your specific instructions and your successor trustee will manage and distribute your assets as you specified.
Living trust can save time and money by skipping probate court altogether, and they allow you to decide who inherits from your property. We can customize your living trust to ensure that the inheritance you leave behind is protected.
A Power of Attorney should be designated
If you become incapacitated and someone else needs to pay your bills and handle your financial needs, it is much easier if you have already specified a Power of Attorney to do so. The appointed Power of Attorney can take action and act on your behalf.
Make your own medical decisions with advance healthcare directives
An advance healthcare directive allows you to leave instructions on your future medical care. It gives you the opportunity to inform those you care about – as well as medical staff – of what to do if you become unable to make your own decisions regarding diagnostic testing, surgery, life support, and other medical needs.
Not only does this ensure that your needs are respected when the time comes, but it also takes the pressure from your loved ones to make these difficult decisions on your behalf.
Every person should have a Will
Most people have heard of Wills but it is common to not fully understand what it is or specifically how it functions. At the Law Office of Kerry P. O’Brien, we help our clients understand what type of Will they need to make sure the State and their loved ones respect their wishes and distribute their assets to the beneficiaries they have selected. If you do not want the State to decide who receives your property and assets after you die, then you need to consult with our office so we can help you understand the process of creating your will, choosing an executor, and deciding how your money, property, and other assets will be distributed at the time of your death.
Call today for comprehensive estate planning help
Call Law Offices of Kerry P. O'Brien today at 562.308.0733 to set up an estate planning consultation. It is never too early to ensure that your final affairs are in order.