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Guardianships are a complicated legal proceeding. Most people have no clue exactly how complicated and expensive they are. In some situations, however, a guardianship is required to manage the affairs of a loved one.

Today, there are many ways you can go about getting a Will. To ensure your Will accomplishes your wishes while also avoiding the greatest expense and complications, you should consult with an experienced estate planning attorney.

I am frequently asked by prospective estate planning clients, "Do I need a trust?" The answer is the classic one: It depends. They are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Whether setting up a living trust is a good idea for you should be discussed with an estate planning attorney who has full knowledge of your assets, family circumstances, and desires.

People frequently delay having a will drawn up because of concern for the cost. The cost of preparing an estate plan package is very reasonable. Compared to the expense you would be out to handle your estate without a will or other estate planning documents, it is a bargain.

The holidays are a perfect time, while family and friends are gathered together (safely distanced, of course), to discuss whether your loved ones' estate planning and related legal matters are in order. It is an emotional subject to approach, but it is much better to be brave and tackle the subject than to avoid the discussion. Later regrets that plans which should have been made were not, will leave you with an even harder situation to deal with.

Most young parents don't want to even think about the possibility of death and see no need for estate planning. However, if a tragedy struck and both parents of minor children were killed, the situation left for their loved ones to deal with is extremely complicated, expensive, and emotional.

The thought of having to do a probate for a deceased loved one is often scary. Although the legal process can appear complicated to a layman, an experienced probate attorney can comfortably guide you through the process.

While not everyone needs a Will, it's wise to explore whether it would be a smart investment for you and your family's future. I can explore with you whether the assets you own can be passed down without a Will or whether having a Will is really key to simple passage of title to assets on your death.

Have you selected successor beneficiaries on your life insurance, retirement accounts, investments, and bank accounts? Now is a good time to double-check.

Estate planning isn't just for rich or older individuals. Even young, asset-poor 20-somethings should start thinking about how their property will be distributed in the event of a tragedy. Drawing up an estate plan is not as much an action you need to take for yourself but one you should take for your loved ones.