Everybody has an estate plan.  Even if you have never written a will or created a trust, you still have an estate plan, but it is dictated by the government.  Without anything stating otherwise, an individuals’ estate will be distributed according to the laws of the state in which they reside at the time of death.  You can take control what you leave behind now, with the help of a professional.

Planning your estate can seem like a complex and difficult process.  Most people do not want to plan for their own passing.  However, planning ahead can ensure the benefit and care of families and loved ones.  Another important reason to plan ahead is to avoid the default probate process and all of the added costs, delays and lack of privacy that goes along with it.  Probate can take over a year to complete and can cost many thousands of dollars.  Some families just have special needs which call for the creation of a trust.  We are here to make it as easy for you as possible.  Depending on your situation and objectives we can create a plan that is best suited to you.

This document released by the American Bar Association discusses estate planning in more detail and the types of planning available.

This more detailed article about estate planning in Wisconsin was released by the University of Wisconsin Extension, Cooperative Extension.

These resources are provided here to help answer any questions you may have about estate planning and all that is involved.  Once you are ready to talk, or if you have more questions, contact our office for a visit.  As always, initial consultations are free.

• Wills
• Revocable Trusts/Living Trusts
• Irrevocable Trusts
• Trusts for Minor Children
• Special and Supplemental Needs Trusts
• Powers of Attorney
• Health Care Directives
• Trust Administration
• Tax Planning
• Probate Avoidance
• Beneficiary Designations
• Re-titling Property
• Gifts