A pair of eyeglasses rests on top of documents, with "Last Will and Testament" prominently displayed.

Comprehensive Estate Planning Services

At some point, everyone must consider the steps needed to safeguard their family’s financial future. Finding a reputable estate attorney is crucial. While life insurance and accumulating assets in banks, credit unions, mutual funds, and investments are essential, consulting with Pendlebury Law Office, PA, can provide comprehensive estate planning solutions. By discussing your options with us, you can ensure your family’s financial security in the event of disability or death.

Why Do I Need a Will?

Will play a vital role in ensuring your estate is distributed according to your wishes after your passing. Without a will, the state will take control of the distribution of your assets. By having a will, you can guarantee that your loved ones receive exactly what you intend for them. Avoid leaving this to chance—an experienced Idaho Falls estate attorney can help you make sure your estate is managed precisely as you desire.

Video Transcription:

I get asked that question a lot. And the answer really is if you want to have any sense of direction regarding where things are going after you pass away, then you need to have a will. Otherwise, there are some default ways that the state will tell how your assets or your money should go. But you won’t have any control over those.

Can I Write My Own Will?

Creating your own will can be a complex and challenging task, with various legal requirements and conditions that must be met for it to be valid. An experienced attorney can simplify this process, ensuring your will meets all necessary legal standards and remains up to date with any changes in regulations. This way, you can have peace of mind knowing your wishes will be honored and your estate will be managed according to your directives.

Video Transcription:

You can. The only things you’ve got to watch out for are statutory requirements. For example, does the testator sign that in the presence of witnesses, and how many? Is there a need for a sub-proving affidavit? Those are the kinds of things that I think people get hung up on most. And so it’s important that if you’re going to write your own will, that you make sure that all of those statutory requirements are in place to make sure that you will be valid when you are completed with it. I think the last thing that you will want to do is write a will that doesn’t conform to the will requirements in the state of Idaho or wherever you are living and then have it invalidated at the end of the day.

Do I Need a Trust?

Establishing a trust is an essential aspect of estate management. Trusts can safeguard your estate for minors, ensuring they can access it once they reach a suitable age. This approach helps prevent young beneficiaries from mishandling their inheritance, allowing the funds to remain protected until they are mature enough to manage them responsibly.

Video Transcription:

Trust is very important if you have children who are under the age of 18. That’s the way that you can put assets for their benefit without them actually having control of it. Whenever we make a will, we always try to put trust in the children as part of that will because it’s very important that the children don’t have the ability to spend all of your money. You want it to be there for them. Protect them from themselves, so to speak.

How Much Does a Will Cost?

The expense of drafting a will depends on its complexity and specific needs. Consulting with your Idaho Falls estate attorney ensures that you make informed decisions about your estate management. They provide the assurance that your loved ones will receive their rightful share, offering you peace of mind.

Video Transcription:

Yeah, that’s a great question, and it really comes down to how much time the attorney really has to spend to put this will together. In a very simple will, oftentimes, the attorney is going to meet with the client and make sure they understand the issues that are there, draft the will, and then come back and meet with the client again to make sure that everything is the way that they wanted it. That process takes about two to three hours in total. If there are much more complicated issues, if there are significant inheritance questions, or if there are those kinds of issues, then it can become much more involved. Most attorneys will bill for wills on an hourly basis, so it really just depends on how complicated the issue is going to be.

Wills and Living Wills

Every individual should at least have a Will to outline their final wishes. In addition to a Will, it’s advisable to have two Powers of Attorney: one for financial matters and one for health care decisions. Many Wills can be probated informally, providing a quicker and more cost-effective alternative to the lengthy probate process. Idaho also offers provisions for a “living will,” which, combined with a health care power of attorney, ensures your medical care preferences are honored if you cannot communicate them yourself.

A close-up image of a document titled "Last Will and Testament" with cursive handwriting and an ornate fountain pen placed on top.

Understanding Power of Attorney

Financial Power of Attorney

A Financial Power of Attorney is a vital legal document that enables a trusted friend or family member to manage your financial affairs if you cannot do so. This includes writing checks, signing tax returns, and handling assets. A Financial Power of Attorney offers a safer alternative than adding someone’s name to your accounts, which can lead to complications if they face legal or financial troubles. It ensures your finances are in capable hands without the risks associated with joint ownership. Our services in this area are affordable, making it accessible for anyone looking to secure their estate.

Health Care Power of Attorney

A Health Care Power of Attorney allows someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are incapacitated. This durable power of attorney ensures that your healthcare preferences, including end-of-life care, are respected. When selecting your agent, it’s crucial to choose someone who understands and will honor your wishes. Communicating your desires directly to your agent can prevent misunderstandings and ensure they are prepared to act in your best interest when necessary.

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Get Highly Experienced Advice

Reach out to our office today to discuss your estate planning needs. Our team is ready to provide the legal consultation you require. Secure your family’s future with expert advice from Pendlebury Law.

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