Law Office of Tara J. Mason, PLLC

Estate Planning

Estate planning attorneys provide a range of essential services, including the creation of wills and trusts, which serve as legal documents outlining the distribution of assets and property upon a person's passing. While wills offer a straightforward way to allocate assets, trusts offer a more intricate and adaptable approach, enabling individuals to provide detailed instructions for asset management during their lifetime. These attorneys also assist clients in preparing advance healthcare directives like living wills and healthcare powers of attorney, enabling individuals to express their medical treatment preferences and designate a trusted individual to make healthcare decisions if they become incapacitated. Furthermore, they can help clients establish durable powers of attorney for financial matters, ensuring someone reliable can manage their financial affairs in the event they are unable to do so themselves.

Probate

After a person passes away, their estate often goes through a legal process called probate. Estate planning attorneys can guide executors or administrators through the probate process, helping them navigate court proceedings, settle debts, distribute assets, and ensure that the deceased person's wishes, as outlined in their will or trust, are carried out correctly. They also provide advice on minimizing potential disputes among heirs and beneficiaries.