Practice areas
Estate Planning
When many people of think of an estate plan or hear the word trust they think it is only for the rich. That simply isn’t true. No estate is too small to have an estate plan. In fact, under the law, everyone has an estate plan. It just may not be the one they choose. Estate planning is the thoughtful and strategic process of arranging your assets, property, and financial affairs to ensure that your wishes are carried out after your passing. It involves creating legal documents like wills, trusts, and powers of attorney to specify how your assets should be distributed and managed, as well as who should make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so.
Estate planning is especially important for families with minor children in order to appoint their preference for guardian and to provide for their children. Estate planning provides peace of mind by protecting your loved ones, minimizing potential disputes, and optimizing the transfer of your assets to the next generation.
Probate
Upon the loss of a beloved family member or friend the question often arises of how to properly handle or distribute the individual’s assets or estate. In many cases, if the deceased individual did not have an estate plan in place or had only a will, the estate may need to be probated.
Probate is the legal process for determining, through the court system, the distribution of a person’s estate. During probate, the court ensures that the deceased's assets are distributed according to their wishes or, if there is no will, in compliance with state law. This process also involves paying off debts and taxes. Probate can be a complex and time-consuming procedure, but it serves as a crucial step in transferring assets and property to heirs and beneficiaries while safeguarding the deceased person's wishes.
There are different types of probates available under the law, including summary administration for smaller estates. We will work with you to determine the appropriate type of probate for your situation and guide you through the process.
Although we strive to assist our clients in establishing an estate plan that helps to avoid probate, it is common that most people experience a probate situation in their family at some point. When this occurs, we will guide you step by step, making the process as painless as possible. We understand how difficult it is to lose a loved one and hope to alleviate the burden that the probate process can be.
Business Formation
Starting a new business is an exciting time. It also can be a very confusing time. Our business formation services encompass a range of professional support and guidance to help entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners navigate the complexities of establishing a new business entity. Whether you're starting a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, limited liability company (LLC), or other business structure, these services are designed to assist you in the process of creating and legally structuring your business in manner that suits your needs.