Trusted Washington Estate Planning Attorney Near Me
Since 1974, Essig Law has provided clients with an experienced Washington estate planning attorney. If you have questions about estate planning, wills, or trusts, give us a call at 309-444-8041 for a free consultation.
Our estate planning attorneys offer more than 75 years of combined experience to clients who need help planning for the future. During a free, confidential consultation, we will take the time to learn about your financial situation and the goals and values you share with your family. Then, we will develop customized options to help make your dreams for the future come to fruition. So, count on Essig Law when you need assistance with any of the following solutions:
Contact our Washington estate planning attorney today to request time to discuss your goals. We provide compassionate counsel and sound financial advice to help you and future generations of your family.
What Is Estate Planning?
Estate planning is the legal process of deciding how your assets will be managed and distributed after you pass away or if you’re incapacitated. Our Washington estate planning attorney will help you create a plan that outlines your wishes for your financial affairs, healthcare, and property. Key elements that our estate planning attorneys can help you with include the following:
- Legal Documents
- Wills – Documents that describe how you want your assets distributed upon your death.
- Trusts – A legal structure that can help your beneficiaries avoid probate which holds assets for your loved ones.
- Powers of Attorney – Documents that grant someone the authority to make decisions about your healthcare or finances if you are incapacitated.
- Living Wills/Advanced Directives – Documents that describe your wishes for end-of-life medical care.
- Tax Planning – Estate planning can help to minimize taxes that beneficiaries incur on inherited or gifted assets.
- Peace of Mind – Estate planning is important for everyone because it is a way to ensure your wishes are followed. Plus, it can help to avoid disputes and legal challenges among beneficiaries.
Who Needs Estate Planning?
Many people make the mistake of thinking that estate plans are only for wealthy individuals. In fact, estate plans are needed for anyone who has dependents or assets. Even individuals with modest assets should consider consulting with our Washington estate planning attorney. That way, those individuals can ensure their wishes are followed and the financial future of their family is protected. Here are some important benefits that you receive with estate planning:
- Protection – Without a plan in place, a court will decide the fate of your assets and who receives them. When you make an estate plan, you protect your loved ones from disputes, and they are cared for in a way that follows your wishes.
- Minimizing Probate – Probate is a time-consuming and costly process. An estate plan can help your beneficiaries avoid or minimize the probate process.
- Reducing Taxes – Without proper planning, estate taxes can cost your beneficiaries a large part of their inheritance after you pass away. Meanwhile, an effective estate plan can ensure more of your assets are passed on to your heirs.
- Asset Management – A trust included in an estate plan can help manage assets if your heirs are minors or are unable to manage assets themselves.
- Clear Communication – Most importantly, an estate plan effectively communicates your wishes regarding asset distribution, healthcare, and property division. Consequently, you can do your part in trying to avoid division and disputes among your heirs.
Speak with our Washington Estate Planning Attorney
Essig Law offers a free initial case review if you’re interested in talking about an estate plan for your family. So, give us a call today at 309-444-8041 to schedule a time to discuss your estate. In addition, you can make an online appointment request with our contact form.
