Wills, Trusts and Other Planning Documents

Planning ahead for our own passing is always difficult, but it is prudent to give some serious consideration to your estate and your family. How do you want your estate to be distributed? How will your family make ends meet? Who will look after your children if you or your spouse are not able to do so? These are serious issues, requiring thought and planning.

Wills - Do you have a will? How do you want your estate to be distributed?

Guardianship - Have you thought about who you would choose as your guardian if the need arose? Have you designated that person, and given that person the appropriate power to make decisions on your behalf if it becomes necessary?

Children - Who would you choose as your child’s guardian or caretaker? Who would handle the money you've set aside for your child if you were unable to do so?

Illness, Accidents, Hospitalization – Do your doctors and your family know what your wishes are, if you were in a serious accident or became very ill? Do you have a medical power of attorney document, and a directive to your physician? Will your family members or loved ones be able to access your medical records?

Trusts - Do you want to prepare longer-term for your partner, a child, a relative, a disabled or sick loved one, or for the care of a pet? A trust can be prepared so that you maintain control of the trust funds while you are alive, or so that you immediately relinquish control of the funds, it's up to you! Trusts are not just for "rich" people, and are a powerful and flexible planning tool for most estates.

Pets - Many people consider their pets to be members of the family and do not want them to end up in a shelter if family dynamics change. Who would look after your pets if something happened to you? Have you given instructions about your preferences for a caretaker for your pets?

The Clary Firm, P.C. helps you plan ahead, and look after the best interests of your family. We listen to you, help you explore options, and draft documents that reflect your wishes.