PROBATE
EXECUTOR OR ADMINISTRATOR
EXECUTOR OR ADMINISTRATOR
EXECUTOR OR ADMINISTRATOR
During probate, the court appoints an executor if one is validly named in the will. If there is no will, or if the named executor is unable or unwilling to serve, the court appoints an administrator to manage the estate. This person is responsible for gathering assets, paying valid debts, and distributing the remaining property to the appropriate beneficiaries under court supervision.
ASSET INVENTORY
EXECUTOR OR ADMINISTRATOR
EXECUTOR OR ADMINISTRATOR
All of the deceased person’s assets—including real estate, bank accounts, personal property, and investments—are identified, documented, and valued as appropriate. This process ensures that the estate has an accurate inventory and confirms the total value of the assets available for paying debts, covering expenses, and ultimately distributing to beneficiaries.
CREDITOR NOTIFICATION
DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS
DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS
Creditors are given a formal opportunity to submit claims against the estate so that any valid outstanding debts, expenses, or financial obligations can be reviewed and properly settled. This step ensures that all lawful claims are addressed before the remaining assets are distributed to beneficiaries.
DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS
DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS
DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS
A Living Will is a legal document that states your preferences for medical treatment if you become unable to communicate your wishes, particularly in situations involving end-of-life care. It guides healthcare providers and loved ones on decisions such as life-prolonging procedures, ensuring that your treatment aligns with your values and personal choices during critical moments.
ESTATE PLANNING
LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT & TRUSTS
LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT & TRUSTS
LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT & TRUSTS
A Last Will and Testament is a legal document that outlines how a person’s assets should be distributed after their death and names a personal representative to manage the process. It only takes effect after death and must go through probate.
A Trust is a legal arrangement that holds and manages assets for the benefit of chosen beneficiaries. Trusts can take effect during life or after death and can help avoid probate, provide privacy, and offer greater control over how and when assets are distributed.
Together, wills and trusts form the foundation of a solid estate plan, ensuring your wishes are clearly documented and your loved ones are protected.
POWER OF ATTORNEY
LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT & TRUSTS
LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT & TRUSTS
A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that allows you to authorize someone you trust to act on your behalf. This person, called an agent, can be granted limited authority for specific tasks or broad authority to manage financial, legal, or personal matters. A POA helps ensure that important decisions can still be made if you are unavailable or unable to act, providing clarity and continuity for you and your loved ones.
HEALTHCARE DIRECTIVES
LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT & TRUSTS
HEALTHCARE DIRECTIVES
Healthcare directives are legal documents that outline your medical wishes and designate who can make healthcare decisions for you if you cannot speak for yourself. The primary document is a Healthcare Surrogate Designation, which appoints someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf. These directives help ensure that your medical treatment reflects your preferences and that your loved ones have clear guidance during difficult moments.
LIVING WILLS
PRE-NEED GUARDIANSHIP PLANNING
HEALTHCARE DIRECTIVES
A Living Will is a legal document that states your preferences for medical treatment if you become unable to communicate your wishes, particularly in situations involving end-of-life care. It guides healthcare providers and loved ones on decisions such as life-prolonging procedures, ensuring that your treatment aligns with your values and personal choices during critical moments.
PRE-NEED GUARDIANSHIP PLANNING
PRE-NEED GUARDIANSHIP PLANNING
PRE-NEED GUARDIANSHIP PLANNING
Pre-Need Guardianship Planning allows you to legally designate in advance the person you want to serve as your guardian if you ever become unable to manage your personal or financial affairs. By naming a trusted individual ahead of time, you maintain control over who will make important decisions on your behalf and help prevent potential disputes or court uncertainty. This planning provides peace of mind and ensures your preferences are respected should a guardianship ever become necessary.