Planning for your future and the future of your loved ones is not something that should be taken lightly. It is essential to have a solid estate plan in place to ensure that your wishes are carried out and assets are protected after you’re gone. However, figuring out when to contact an estate planning attorney can be difficult. In this blog post, we will discuss five signs that indicate you need an estate planning attorney.

You're Getting Older:

As you approach retirement age or your health is declining, it becomes essential to have a comprehensive estate plan in place. This includes a will or trust, power of attorney, and medical directive. These documents will outline your wishes for when you’re no longer able to make decisions for yourself.

You Have Children:

Having children changes everything. Not only do you need an estate plan, but you may need to update it as your children grow up. An estate planning attorney can help you establish a trust or will for your children, ensuring that they’ll receive an inheritance that meets your intentions.

You Have a High Net Worth:

If you have substantial assets, you should consider hiring an estate planning attorney. They can help you manage your wealth, protect your assets, and minimize estate taxes. You’ll be able to rest assured that your assets will pass on to the next generation or a charitable cause without any issues.

You Want to Avoid Probate:

Probate is a lengthy and expensive court process that can occur after someone's death. An estate planning attorney can help you establish a trust to avoid probate altogether. By doing this, you’re ensuring that your estate avoids any legal challenges that could delay distribution and cost your beneficiaries time and money.

You Want to Support a Charity:

If you’re interested in giving back to the community through a charitable organization, you should contact an estate planning attorney. They can help you determine the best way to leave a legacy through charitable giving, whether it’s through a trust or other estate planning vehicles.

Estate planning can be overwhelming and complicated, but it’s crucial to have a plan in place to protect your assets and your family. If one or more of the signs mentioned above sound familiar to you, it’s time to consider reaching out to an estate planning attorney. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process and provide guidance to ensure that your wishes are carried out as intended.

For more information, contact an estate planning attorney in your area.