A complete plan typically includes:
-- Will (names your executor and, if needed, guardians for minors)
-- Standard estate planning end‑of‑life documents (General Power of Attorney, Medical Power of Attorney, Advance Directive)
-- Revocable Living Trust (for trust‑based plans that avoid probate when properly funded)
All of our plan levels include the standard end‑of‑life documents and include either a signing conference at our firm or attorney communications and instructions to help you coordinate a local signing.
Will‑based plans are a bit simpler and lower cost, but they do not avoid probate. Trust-based plans are designed to avoid probate when properly funded (you retitle assets to the trust and update beneficiary designations). A Pour‑Over Will catches anything left outside the trust. An estate planning attorney will help you match the structure to your goals, timeline, and budget.
A General Power of Attorney authorizes a trusted person to handle finances and legal matters if you’re unable. A Medical Power of Attorney appoints someone to make healthcare decisions if you cannot. Finally, an Advance Directive states your end‑of‑life treatment preferences so loved ones and physicians have clear guidance.
These standard estate planning end‑of‑life documents are included in all of our plan levels.
Yes—document design, review, and revisions can be done remotely. Most jurisdictions require in‑person formalities for signing Wills (and some POA documents). Every plan includes either a signing conference at our firm OR attorney communications and instructions to help you coordinate a local signing with proper witnesses/notary.
You nominate guardians in your Will (and can list backups). We also align your plan with beneficiary designations so assets are managed until chosen ages. This reduces court intervention, preserves privacy, and provides a practical roadmap for your family.
A Revocable Living Trust avoids probate only when funded. Funding means:
-- Retitling assets (e.g., deeds placing real estate in the trust — $250 per deed + recording fees)
-- Updating beneficiary designations (life insurance, retirement, POD/TOD accounts)
-- Coordinating bank/brokerage accounts