ESTATE PLANNING

Estate Planning

Throughout the years you have built up an estate and achieved success. Now your focus shifts from accumulation to preserving these assets for your care and eventually distribution to your loved ones upon your death. That is what estate planning is all about.

What happens if I die without a will?
With certain exceptions, your possessions are divided according to state law among your closest relatives.
What can I accomplish by making out a will?
You can choose who is to receive your property; select someone to serve as personal representative (formally known as executor); and appoint a guardian for your children under age 18.
Does all property go through probate?
No. For example, money held in a joint bank account automatically belongs to the other owner. If your spouse's or child's name is on the deed to your house, the house automatically belongs to him or her. Life insurance benefits go directly to the beneficiary named in the policy. A will has no effect on these types of property, which are known collectively as the "non-probate" estate.
How can the Jordan Balkema Elder Law Center assist you?
The attorneys of the Jordan Balkema Elder Law Center have prepared thousands of estate plans, given hundreds of seminars related to estate planning topics and written numerous articles regarding estate planning. We are prepared in every way to assist you in meeting your estate planning goals. We will make the process as easy as possible by giving detailed explanations and by promptly addressing any concerns you may have.
CIRCULAR 230 DISCLOSURE: Pursuant to U.S. Treasury Department Regulations, any federal tax advice contained in this communication (including attachments and enclosures) is not intended or written to be used, and may not be used, for the purpose of (i) avoiding tax-related penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (ii) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any tax-related matter