Estate Planning Guidance
When planning for the future of your estate, you may believe that a simple will is all you need. While this may be true for some, the truth is there are numerous factors that you may not have considered regarding your wealth and estate. At Pope Law Firm, PLLC, our legal team has worked with thousands of individuals and families to create comprehensive estate plans that protect their current and future wealth, property and the stability of their family.
Call (716) 634-3320 for a free consultation to discuss your estate planning needs.
Estate Planning Is An Evolving Process
Take a moment to reflect: Is your financial situation the same as it was 10 years ago? Do you think your situation will be any different 10 years into the future? These types of questions are at the foundation of our estate planning practice. More than just addressing your immediate needs, our lawyers understand that your life and finances are constantly evolving.
When you sit down with us to discuss your estate, some topics we will address include:
- Potential beneficiaries
- Special needs planning and trusts for family members
- Determining if assets need to be placed into a trust
- Discussions regarding how assets are titled
- Discussing or revealing all your assets
- Significant additions or reductions to your estate
- Considerations for health transitions, disabilities and the potential for long-term care or elder law matters
- Any factors that are important to you, or others that we think may be important, are open for consideration
Understanding Probate And Your Family’s Needs
The loss of a family member or loved one can usher in a period of grief, confusion and, at times, infighting among relatives. Depending on whether a valid will was left by the deceased, the estate may be divided either by the will left by the deceased (testate) or by the distribution plan established by state law (intestate).
The probate process also provides for the collection of any taxes due by reason of the deceased’s death or on the transfer of his or her property. Additionally, it provides a mechanism for payment of outstanding debts owed by the decedent.
Attentive, Tailored Guidance
Regardless of the circumstances of your situation, we will work with you to ensure the process moves as smoothly as possible. Contact one of our Western New York offices to learn more about estate planning and probate. To speak with an attorney at one of our four offices, please call (716) 634-3320 or complete our online contact form.