Estate planning involves creating a plan to distribute one’s assets to desired beneficiaries, considering what one has, who they want to inherit it, and when. It can also involve minimizing tax liabilities in more complex estates. Without an estate plan, the state may impose a default plan that might not align with one’s wishes. Estate planning provides control over asset distribution, ensuring assets go where intended and providing peace of mind. It also reduces stress for loved ones by avoiding complicated probate processes.

If you’d like to start developing an estate plan contact one of our wills and estate planning attorneys today!

In North Carolina, dying without a will means your assets are distributed according to the state’s intestacy statute, essentially a default plan determined by the legislature. While intended to be fair, this often leads to undesired outcomes. For instance, without a will, a surviving spouse may not inherit the entire estate if there are living parents. Having a will enables you to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes, avoiding potential conflicts and ensuring a more effective decision-making process.

Protect your loved ones. Contact our wills & estate planning attorneys to begin crafting your estate plan.

What is the difference between a will and a living will? Estate planning attorney Tyler Chriscoe explains the difference and why you should consider both.

What is a will?

A will lets you decide how your possessions are shared after you pass away. It also names someone to oversee the distribution process. Having a will ensures your wishes are followed and reduces stress for your loved ones during a difficult time.

What is a living will?

A living will focuses on your healthcare wishes if you can’t make decisions for yourself. It allows you to say what kind of medical treatment you want (or don’t want) in situations like a coma or terminal illness. A living will provides peace of mind for you and your family by ensuring your medical wishes are respected.

Contact our wills & estate planning attorneys today to talk about creating a will as well as a living will to ensure your wishes are known and carried out.

A trust is a way to manage your assets (like money, property, or investments) for someone else’s benefit. You transfer the ownership of the assets to a trustee, who manages them according to your wishes and then distributes them to the beneficiary (who can be you, a family member, a charity, or anyone else you choose.)

Contact one of our estate planning attorneys today if you want to start the process of establishing a trust for yourself or your loved one(s).

Does estate planning always include a trust? The short answer is no.

A trust is not always included in estate planning. An estate plan can be just a will. However, a trust can be useful for various reasons, such as managing assets for young children or disabled beneficiaries, avoiding probate, and keeping your financial affairs private. Ultimately, an attorney can help you decide if a trust is right for you.

Peace of mind starts here. Contact our trusted estate planning attorneys for a consultation and get started on your personalized plan.