You have worked hard to be where you are today, and to be able to pass on a legacy to your loved ones. When you are no longer able to speak for yourself, the legal documents you’ve put into place ahead of time will do the talking for you. If you have not created a legally sound and comprehensive estate plan, however, the future of your family and fortune could be at risk.
The San Diego estate planning attorneys at Avant Law Corporation will do everything possible to ensure that your goals and desires are met in the event of your death or incapacitation. We are highly experienced in California estate law and are known for our dedication to clients.
Contact us today to begin your estate planning with a free consultation in Solana Beach.
Why Choose Avant Law Corporation for Your Estate Planning Needs?
- We have impeccable attention to detail. If just one item is wrong in your estate plan, it could unravel all of your hard work. Our team pays attention to the smallest details for absolute peace of mind.
- Our law firm makes a difference in our clients’ lives by fostering long-term relationships with them. We will help you secure the estate you have now as well as protect it as it grows and changes over the years.
- Our team of attorneys has more than 200 years of combined legal experience. We understand the nuances of estate law in Solana Beach and can help you understand all of your options when it comes to estate planning.
The Benefits of Hiring an Estate Planning Attorney in Solana Beach
Most estate plans in California are set up with the help of an attorney experienced in estate law. A skilled attorney can help you plan for any eventuality and guide your family through what to do when they are going through difficult times. A lawyer will know exactly how to navigate the state’s estate laws to your greatest possible advantage during the planning process.
Your lawyer will create a customized plan that is tailored to your unique life, family dynamics, assets, needs, and wishes. An attorney will find creative ways to meet your personal goals, such as avoiding probate or minimizing taxation.
A lawyer will also enable you to avoid common mistakes, including the major error of having an estate plan that is not valid or does not comply with state law. This could put everything you’ve worked for at risk. After hiring a lawyer, you can rest assured about the future of your estate.
What Does Estate Planning Entail?
Estate planning refers to the process of preparing a package of legal documents and tasks that will effectively manage your asset base in the event that you become incapacitated or pass away. Estate planning typically involves naming heirs or beneficiaries, planning the future ownership of assets, and settling your estate taxes.
Will
A will is a key element of an estate plan. It is a document that determines how your assets will be managed and distributed after your death. It involves naming an estate administrator or executor to organize distribution, bequeathing assets to beneficiaries, appointing guardians for minors, arranging charitable donations, and planning your funeral or burial.
Trusts
Trusts grant a named individual (known as a trustee) the right to make decisions on behalf of the person who created the trust (the grantor) in certain situations, such as if the grantor becomes incapacitated. Trusts can help to minimize taxes or meet specific needs, such as a special needs trust. Revocable living trusts are the most common, as they can be updated, changed, or revoked during the grantor’s lifetime.
Power of Attorney
A power of attorney, or POA, is an individual who is given the authority to make important decisions on your behalf. These decisions are up to you to control and decide. They may involve your business, finances, investments, and health care choices.
Medical Directives
An advance health care directive in California refers to a document that gives instructions or preferences for your medical care and any end-of-life treatments. It can ensure that your health care decisions are honored and will be used if you are not physically or mentally able to communicate your desires at the time.
Who Needs an Estate Plan in Solana Beach?
Everyone in Solana Beach – not just the ultra-wealthy – should have an estate plan. The purpose of an estate plan is to ensure that all of your affairs are in order in the event of your unexpected incapacitation or death. A properly constructed estate plan will clearly express what you want for the future of your life and legacy. It has the power to protect the things you care most about and have worked hard for long after you’re gone.
If you are the owner of even one item, you have an estate. Failing to take charge of the future of your home, properties, vehicles, artwork, collectibles, businesses, bank accounts, investments, retirement plans, and insurance policies is a mistake that can have serious repercussions. Incapacity or death without an estate plan could force your family into the probate process, which may result in undue taxation and your wishes being ignored.
When Should You Create or Update Your Estate Plan?
You should create an estate plan as soon as possible. If you are over the age of 18 and have any property or savings, an estate plan can give you the authority to choose which of your loved ones will inherit from you. It can also allow you to name someone you trust to handle your affairs, rather than the decision going to a judge.
You should update your estate plan after major life events, changes in your financial situation, and every three to five years (for general checks).
Contact Our Solana Beach Estate Planning Lawyers | Start With a Free Consultation
Don’t leave the future of your estate up to chance. Take control and gain valuable peace of mind by working with the attorneys at Avant Law Corporation for all of your estate planning needs in Solana Beach.
We offer comprehensive estate planning tools and advice that come from years of experience in California estate law. Our team will be just as committed as you are to preserving the future of your estate. Contact us online or call (888) 619-2826 today to learn more during a free consultation.
Someone from our team will get back to you within 24 hours of contact. We can come to you anywhere if you cannot come to our local law office. We also offer virtual consultations with no office visit required.