Fort Bliss, TX Estate Planning Lawyer
There aren’t many people who think of estate planning as being necessary for individuals of all ages. Unfortunately, because of this way of thinking, too many Americans die with no plan for their property or assets. Your loved ones will ultimately be the ones to suffer as they attempt to sort through what you leave behind, on top of enduring the long and stressful Texas probate process. In the absence of your explicit direction and final wishes, your family may begin to squabble over who should inherit what, causing conflict in an already difficult period of grieving. This is why estate planning is so important, and not just for people who are advancing in age. If you are a parent to minor children, you also need to consider a plan for who will take responsibility for your children in the event that something should suddenly happen to you. Villegas Law Firm can explain your options when it comes to your estate and help you meet your unique goals. Call our Fort Bliss estate planning lawyer today for a free consultation and learn more about how we walk you through the process with ease!
What Are The Most Common Estate Planning Tools?
After meeting with our attorney, he will be able to recommend the most beneficial way to preserve your legacy for your family. At the minimum, every effective estate plan should include:
- Last will and testament: this document describes how you would like your assets and property to be distributed following your death
- Medical power of attorney: this document names the individual you would like to make healthcare and medical decisions for you if you should become incapacitated
- Guardianship designation: this document may serve two distinct purposes. In the event you become incapacitated, it may designate the person you want to be your guardian. It may also designate a guardian for your minor children if you should die or become incapacitated.
- Physician’s directive (living will): this may be a collection of documents which express your wishes for certain types of medical care or artificial life support in the event you are unable to.
- Durable power of attorney: this document names the person who is able to make all legal decisions for you if you become unable to.
In addition, our Fort Bliss estate planning lawyer can establish trusts which are financial entities to which you transfer your assets. Trusts are especially beneficial estate planning tools because they pass directly to your beneficiary following your death, and completely bypass probate. There are two basic types of trusts: revocable and irrevocable. Irrevocable trusts cannot be altered after they are created, while revocable trusts can be altered as needed. There are also charitable trusts, life insurance trusts, special needs trusts, and more!
Can I Do It Myself?
If you’ve been researching estate planning for a while, chances are you have come across some ads on the internet trying to persuade you to handle estate planning on your own! However, these generic “DIY” documents are often not compliant with Texas state laws and may not serve the purpose you intended when they are needed most. Working with our knowledgeable estate planning attorney will give you peace of mind that everything is done correctly and legally. You will also be assured that the plan for your estate is personalized to your unique financial and family situation.
You Can Rely On Our Knowledgeable Fort Bliss Estate Planning Attorney To Build The Plan That Benefits You And Your Family!
Don’t risk your hard-earned wealth by letting another day go by with no plan to preserve it. Our lead attorney, Jorge Villegas, has over 15 years of experience with estate planning matters and can eliminate your confusion in the process. He is also a Certified Public Accountant, giving you a particular advantage when it comes to your finances. Call today to schedule your free consultation and learn more!