A Will, health care and financial powers of attorney are the core documents that comprise most every estate plan but serve different purposes.  Broadly speaking, an estate plan is the orderly transfer of property following the death of the owner without regard to the total value of the property that is to be transferred.  For example, a Will with a testamentary trust may be advisable for a couple with at least one minor child.  In that case, the Will would specify the guardian for the minor thereby eliminating a protracted discussion by otherwise worthy candidates.  The Will also would bequeath property to a surviving spouse or other loved one, provide for the orderly transfer of real estate, and it may address the disposition of certain financial accounts and other personal property. For others, a Will may address the matters addressed above and may include provisions for charitable and specific bequests for siblings, grandchildren and nonprofit organizations.  Still other persons may benefit from the use of a revocable trust or other trust instrument that provides lifetime management of property, privacy, and may help ease the probate administration process.

If you pass away without a Will, Iowa laws of intestate succession determine who, how, and when a person may receive your property.  The scenarios are numerous; however, you can eliminate the uncertainty of wealth and property distribution by selecting an estate planning attorney to listen to your objectives and to advise you regarding your estate planning options.

As part of the estate planning process, I generally meet with each client to discuss their wishes and objectives, which may not be similar, and to discuss the relational dynamics of their family.  Following the initial consultation, I prepare the estate planning documents that meet the client’s wishes and objectives.  Contact The Law Office of Melvin O. Shaw, P.L.C. to schedule an estate planning consultation.