In an ideal world, we would know what the future holds and nothing would take us by surprise. Unfortunately, the truth is that we rarely know what our future will look like and life is full of the unexpected. At Freeman Law Firm, we provide a myriad of an estate and probate planning and administration services so that no matter what happens, you can face it knowing you have taken the steps necessary to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your assets. Our ability to provide the assistance you need is extensive and includes the following estate and probate planning and administration services.
Estate Administration and Probate
When someone passes away, their estate often goes through a process known as estate administration or probate. During this process, someone who is acquainted with the estate is appointed as the executor(when there is a will) or administrator(when there is not a will). Once appointed, assets will need to be determined and sometimes liquidated. Any existing debt will also need to be determined and paid. Finally, the heirs of the estate must be ascertained and the estate distributed to them. Estate administration is a technical process and our firm is well versed in all aspects and can provide the guidance you need.
Wills & Trusts
A will is a legally binding document in which individual states who or what they desire to receive their belongings upon their death. A will is also the instrument parents and other legal guardians utilize to make their wishes known regarding who should have custody of their child(ren) upon their death.
Trusts are a fiduciary relationship in which a third party, or trustee, holds assets on behalf of the beneficiary. Trusts are very versatile and are utilized for many reasons, including minimizing taxes, shielding assets from creditors, and providing support for special needs relatives.
After assessing your particular situation, our firm will be able to advise you on the estate planning tools that best serve your needs.
Guardianship & Conservatorship
When a loved one has become unable to care for themselves and/or their affairs, it may be necessary to file for an appointment as their guardian or conservator. A guardianship is appropriate in cases where an incapacitated person is unable to provide for their own personal needs, such as procuring a place to live, food to eat, and appropriate medical care. A conservatorship is appropriate when an incapacitated person is unable to take care of their own financial affairs. This includes paying bills and filing taxes. A conservator does not have the ability to make decisions regarding the incapacitated individual’s personal affairs.
Our firm can help you determine whether a guardianship or conservatorship is appropriate in your situation. Once that has been determined, we are able to file the appropriate paperwork to proceed with the appointment needed.
Contact Our Firm Today
Contact Freeman Law Firm today for all your estate planning and probate needs. Let us use our skills and extensive experience to provide you with the representation you need.