Beginning the estate planning process can feel overwhelming. It is never pleasant to think about things that involve the end of life and paying taxes. Taking the time to put together an Orange County estate plan, however, should bring you peace of mind, knowing that your assets will pass smoothly and in accordance with your wishes, should something happen to you. Your first step when you are ready to begin this process is to contact an experienced Anaheim estate planning attorney. As you prepare for your meeting with your lawyer, begin thinking about the following questions:
- Who do you want to be in charge of carrying out your trust or estate administration? Your trustees and executors will likely have assistance from an attorney and will be bound by the terms that you outline in your documents. However, it is still wise to choose someone who is responsible, organized, and available to serve in this role.
- Who do you want to raise your children if you and your spouse are deceased? Consider such factors as where this person lives, whether he or she has other children, his or her values, and his or her financial situation.
- Do you have any specific items of property that you want to go to a certain individual? An example would be a piece of art that your niece has always treasured.
- Who do you want to receive the rest of your assets?
- Do you want your beneficiaries to receive your assets outright, or do you want the property distributed over time?
- Do you want to make any donations to charity?
- Are there certain wishes that you have in mind with regard to your end-of-life health care?
- What are your primary goals for your estate plan? Are you concerned about providing for your loved ones, preparing for your incapacity or disability, minimizing estate taxes, or avoiding probate?
Your attorney will help guide you through the process of choosing and executing the right strategy for you. To learn more about what you can expect, view our free guide, The Ten Things You Must Know Before Creating (or Amending) your Will or Trust. Contact the experienced Orange County estate planning attorneys at the Law Office of James F. Roberts & Associates, APC for a consultation. Call our office today at (714) 282-7488.