Planning estate problems “away”

Nothing can damage family relationships more than disputes over money and other assets. When there is a death in the family or a loved one is facing disabilities or dementia, having the right attorney to guide you can ensure a smooth transition of wealth and balance the needs of all involved..

We compassionately counsel you on setting up an estate plan that meets all of your goals. We advise on managing long-term health care costs for the elderly and disabled. Our goal is to help you manage costs while preserving wealth for the future.

You do not have to be wealthy to create an estate plan. In fact, those with less money will benefit more in the long run by planning for future financial needs now. The best time to set up an estate plan is whenever there is an acquisition of life insurance or a major asset or a significant change in the family situation, including:

• Marriage, divorce or re-marriage
• Birth of children, or adoption
• Retirement, advancement in years
• Major changes in health and care needs
• Death

Common tools of an estate plan can include: a Will, Revocable Trust, General Power of Attorney (POA), Health Care Power of Attorney, and Living Will.

In the areas of Elder Law, Medicaid Law, and Alzheimer's planning Wood & Lamping has unmatched expertise and has published a free Medicaid and Estate Planning Handbook. If you are interested in receiving this handbook, click here to request a copy.

Wood & Lamping views estate planning as an ongoing process and understands that everyone’s goals, needs and circumstances are different. Your Estate Plan will be individually designed and reviewed periodically in order to preserve and ensure your particular objectives are met. We'll also help you avoid probate and facilitate a fast, smooth and private transition of wealth at the lowest possible tax cost to you.

Additional Types of Trusts we can expertly design for you include:

• Probate Avoidance Trusts
• Special Needs Trusts
• Life Insurance Trusts
• Generation Skipping Trusts
• Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts
• Personal Residence Trusts
• Charitable Remainder Trusts