4 Reasons to Hire an Estate Planning Attorney
Most people spend their lives working toward various ambitions. People pursue career goals, start families, build collections, and do other things that allow them to amass a number of belongings and wealth. After you die, your belongings can be passed on to the people of your choosing. An estate plan will ensure that your wishes are carried out as specified. An estate planning attorney can help you create and maintain an estate plan. Here are four reasons to hire an estate planning attorney:
1. Create an estate plan for the first time.
A living will is part of an estate plan, but it isn't the sole component. Estate plans also include legal documents that help you enact your wishes when you're not present or incapacitated, like advanced medical directives. An estate planning attorney will help you figure out which documents you need in your estate plan. Their expertise can be invaluable during the process.
2. Make important medical decisions in advance.
Most people have strong opinions about their medical care. However, in certain situations, you may be unable to give informed consent for medical procedures. An estate planning attorney will draft the legal documents that will allow you to give a trusted loved one the power of medical attorney. As part of your estate plan, you can also specify the types of life-saving measures you find appropriate. If you would rather not be resuscitated in the event that your heart stops beating, an estate planning attorney can create a do-not-resuscitate order.
3. Keep your estate plan up to date.
Maintaining your estate plan is an ongoing process. You'll probably need to update your estate plan from time to time, depending on your life events. Getting married, getting divorced, and having children are a few reasons to update your estate plan. If you decide to remove someone from your will or modify their claim, an estate planning attorney can help you do so. Ideally, you should meet with your attorney periodically to review your will and ensure it is still accurate.
4. Carry out your estate plan after your passing.
Finally, someone will need to carry out your will after your death. An estate planning attorney can gather your beneficiaries and distribute your assets to them as outlined in your will. Knowing that your wishes will be honored after your death can offer you great peace of mind.
For more information, contact a local estate planning attorney near you.
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