Often the way to avoid probate, involves the preparation of the following:
Wills & Trusts
Durable Powers of Attorney
Health Care Declarations
Beneficiary Deeds
Sometimes, people with limited assets and heirs, don't need formal estate planning. After a no obligation consultation, we will inform and advise you of the options you have to transfer your wealth after your death.
Everyone should have a durable power of attorney and a health care declaration. Generally, a durable power of attorney for financial matters designates someone to act on your behalf if you are physically or mentally unable to do so.
The health care declaration can easily be referred to as "pull the plug" directive. If two or more doctors state that you are in a vegetative state incapable of recovery and are only being kept alive by artificial means, your designated agent (attorney-in-fact) will instruct health care providers to "pull the plug" from the machines keeping you alive.
Wills are strongly advised for parents with minor children to designate a guardian in the event of an untimely death. Wills are filed and administered in probate court. Assets administered in probate court are public knowledge.
I don't sell wills and trusts. I sell advice. My job isn't to have the client tell me they need a simple will and write it. That's what Legal Zoom does with their fill in the blank forms. If the client knew what they needed, they wouldn't have to hire me. I see it like going to the doctor with a searing stomach ache, and telling the doctor "I only want an antacid. Do not check me for appendicitis."
My job is to examine each and every client's circumstances, including family, children, assets, age, health, citizenship, employment, etc. and after an examination of a multitude of variables, including intangible impressions that I get from a face to face meeting with the client, only then do I advise them what I think they need, and if they decide to follow my advice, begin drafting the documents.
The best way to avoid probate court, additional legal fees and court costs after your death, provide quick and private distribution of your assets and to take advantage of tax laws is to have a trust prepared. A trust may also protect your assets from creditors.
If you don't have any of these, you should. Every one should. You wouldn't believe the heartache and aggravation that comes to loved ones without proper estate planning and proven probate avoidance techniques. Call us to schedule you appointment today.
The Doskocil Law Firm P.C.
476 Old Smizer Mill Road #232
Fenton, MO 63026-3553
Telephone: (314) 262-4913
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