What Is a Special Needs Trust and Who Needs One?
A special needs trust protects assets for disabled individuals without affecting government benefits. Learn who needs one and how it works.
Everything You Need to Know About Estate Planning
Estate planning is about love, legacy, and peace of mind. From wills and trusts to probate and power of attorney, we'll help you understand your options—and connect you with attorneys who truly care.
What Is Estate Planning and What Is Probate?
Estate planning is how you make sure your loved ones are protected—no matter what happens. It involves creating legal documents like wills, trusts, and powers of attorney to decide who cares for your children, who handles your finances, and how your assets are passed on.
If you don’t have a solid plan in place, your family may face probate—a court process that can be slow, costly, and stressful. With the right estate plan, you can often avoid probate altogether and make things easier for those you care about most.
What Can Go Wrong Without an Estate Plan?
When you don't have a plan, the people you love are the ones left to pick up the pieces. Grief is hard enough—don't leave behind confusion, legal battles, or financial strain.
The State Decides Who Gets What
Without a will or trust, your assets are divided by state law—not your wishes.
Long, Expensive Probate
Your loved ones may spend months (or years) in probate court, paying fees and facing delays.
No Say in Medical or Financial Decisions
Without a power of attorney, courts decide who will speak for you if you can’t.
Family Conflict and Stress
Unclear plans often lead to disagreements that can fracture even the closest families.
Protect your loved ones from the pain of uncertainty.
What's Included in a Complete Estate Plan
Trusts allow you to control how your assets are managed and distributed—often helping you avoid probate and reduce taxes.
A will outlines your final wishes and names guardians for your children. It's the foundation of any estate plan.
A power of attorney gives someone legal authority to make financial or medical decisions on your behalf if you're unable to.
Guardianship assigns someone to care for a loved one who can’t care for themselves, such as a minor or aging parent.
A conservator is appointed to manage financial affairs for someone who is incapacitated or unable to do so themselves.
Smart estate planning includes tax minimization strategies to preserve more of your wealth for future generations.
What Happens When You Have a Solid Estate Plan?
Creating an estate plan doesn't just protect your assets—it brings clarity, confidence, and peace to you and your loved ones. Here's what you gain:
Your loved ones are protected
You've clearly outlined your wishes, making things easier for your family during difficult times.
You avoid chaos and conflict
With the right plan, you reduce confusion, stress, and family disputes.
Your legacy lives on your terms
You decide what happens to your life's work—not the courts.
You save time and money
Proper planning helps your loved ones avoid costly delays and probate fees.
Planning today brings peace tomorrow.
Who Needs an Estate Plan?
Everyone can benefit from protecting their future and their loved ones.
Blended families
Business owners
Child-free couples
Divorcees
Grandparents
High-net-worth individuals
Homeowners
LGBTQ+ couples
New parents
Singles
Special needs families
Young adults
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Enjoy peace of mind knowing that your family's future is secure.
You Deserve Clarity, Control, and Peace of Mind
Thinking about the future doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Whether you're starting from scratch or updating an old plan, we're here to guide you every step of the way—with compassion, clarity, and attorneys you can trust.
Register for a Free Estate Planning Event Near You
Want to learn more before making a decision? Get notified about our next free in-person or online educational event near you and get clear, expert answers to your estate planning questions—no pressure, just guidance.
Common Questions About Estate Planning
Got any questions? We’re here to help!
How much does estate planning cost?
Costs vary depending on your needs. A basic plan might start at a few hundred dollars, while more complex arrangements with trusts, tax planning, and asset protection can cost more. Many attorneys offer flat fees or free consultations to help you get started.
How can I avoid probate?
Using tools like revocable living trusts, transfer-on-death (TOD) deeds, and naming beneficiaries on accounts can help avoid probate. A qualified estate planning attorney can help you choose the right strategies.
Do I need a power of attorney if I already have a will or trust?
Yes. A durable power of attorney gives someone legal authority to make financial or medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. It works during your lifetime, while a will only takes effect after death.
What’s the difference between a will and a trust?
A will outlines your final wishes and goes through probate court, which can be public and time-consuming. A trust (especially a revocable living trust) avoids probate, keeps your affairs private, and allows faster asset distribution to your heirs.
What is estate planning and why is it important?
Estate planning is the process of legally arranging how your assets will be managed and distributed after your death—or if you become incapacitated. A solid plan protects your loved ones, avoids unnecessary taxes, and ensures your wishes are honored.
From the EPA Blog
Estate Planning articles to equip you with the knowledge on how to secure a stable future for your loved ones.
