Estate Planning Attorney

Why do some choose to plan their estate themselves?

There are many useful tools, and documents to be found on the internet. However, trying to complete an estate plan by yourself is something that should be cautioned. In this day in age, you can find almost anything on the internet. It seems there are countless blogs, videos, and resources teaching you how to do whatever you wish, all promising to get the job done. We feel confident knowing that we can take matters into our own hands, and become self-reliant individuals. However, like many mechanics, plumbers and electricians could tell you, it takes years of practice to master a task, and trying to do it all yourself could have serious consequences. In the same way, trying to plan your estate yourself using an online tool or template could have serious consequences. 

Do you save money by planning your estate by yourself?

While trying to plan your estate by yourself will save you money initially, in the long run, it actually may cost you significantly more than hiring an estate planning attorney. There is a lot that goes into an estate plan. Specific documents, medical directives, and tax considerations per each individual state. If an estate plan is done incorrectly, or missing key elements it could lead to devastating financial implications for you, and your loved ones. 

Why should an estate plan include medical directives?

Hiring an experienced attorney from Silverman Law Office, PLLC will help with important documents such as medical directives. Medical directives are a crucial part of a person’s estate plan. They instruct the hospital staff, doctors, and loved ones on what care should look like at the end of life. Medical directives provide peace of mind for an individual, and their family knowing the answers to tough questions when it comes to comfort and care in the final phase of one’s life. If there are no specific medical directives the family members will have to decide what they think their loved one would want. If not all are unified, this can lead to discord or conflict amongst the family. 

What happens if my estate plan or will is contested?

If your estate plan is not properly done, your will and the distribution of your estate may be easily contested. Rather than allowing your loved ones to celebrate and grieve your passing in peace, they will more than likely have to go to court and fight for what they are entitled to. Although there is no promise of an uncontested will with an attorney, your loved ones will have the legal support they need, and a helpful guide with an attorney. 

Why should I hire an estate planning attorney?

Hiring an estate planning attorney ensures that your estate and all its assets are carefully assessed and distributed how you want them to be. The executor of the estate will be responsible for communicating with the beneficiaries and distributing the estate. An estate planning attorney will carry out any donations the estate wishes to give, and the debt that needs to be paid. A Bozeman estate planning attorney will help make sure all financial documents are enclosed within the estate plan such as bank and retirement account information.