Estate Planning + Probate Attorneys in Madison, WI
Estate Planning Services in Madison, WI
Ensuring that you have a solid estate plan in place has many benefits. Not only will you have peace of mind knowing that your wishes will be followed both during your life and upon your death, but the burden on your loved ones is also significantly reduced.
Drafting a Will allows you to accomplish goals such as:
Specify to whom you want your property to pass upon your death;
Determining if a testamentary trust is needed for any minor children, and if so, determining who will be in charge of the trust (the Trustee), for what purposes the trust funds can be used, and deciding when the funds will be distributed to the children; and
Determining who will be responsible for finishing up your affairs upon your death.
A proper estate plan also ensures that you have trusted individuals in place to make health care and financial decisions for you, if you are not able to make these decisions yourself. Your financial power of attorney allows someone else to assist with your financial affairs. This document can go into effect immediately, or you can wait until you are unable to handle your financial affairs on your own.
A health care power of attorney not only states who you want to make health decisions for you if you are unable to do so, but can also include a “Declaration to Physicians” which provides guidance regarding your wishes, as well as an “Authorization For Final Disposition” which can provide guidance regarding your final wishes, such as if you want to be cremated, if you would prefer a full funeral service or a Celebration of Life, where you wish to be buried, and similar wishes.
Probate Services in Madison, WI
After a loved one has died, the thought of winding up their financial affairs can be very daunting. We can help. We will determine which probate process will be the easiest and most cost effective for your estate and assist your loved ones through the process, making this trying time easier. We will ensure that all tax issues are addressed, the proper tax returns are filed, all legitimate debts are paid, and that your assets go to the people to whom you had intended.