Saraland, AL Estate Planning Lawyers

As a firm that helps clients navigate the complex steps of moving their loved one’s estate through the probate process, we have personally seen the stress and heartache that a family can endure when a relative passes away with no estate plan. 

Unfortunately, far too many Americans put off the task of estate planning, whether that be because they are uncomfortable thinking about death, or simply do not want to devote the time to working through their finances and other legal matters with an attorney. However, their loved ones are usually the ones who end up having to sort through their affairs, which forces them to deal with the court and carry out other legal obligations for months on end. 

You likely do not wish for your own family to have to go through this, especially while they are grieving your loss and have their own responsibilities to tend to. This is why it is imperative to get your affairs in order now, and allow an experienced attorney to simplify the process while saving you time and money! At The Ladd Firm, our skilled Saraland estate planning lawyers have more than 50 years of combined experience, and are well practiced in the laws and guidelines of the state of Alabama. Call today to learn how you can schedule a free phone consultation and receive more information regarding our services.

What Should An Estate Plan Include?

A living will (also known as an advance directive) – This estate planning document clearly expresses your wishes for what health care decisions should be made on your behalf, so if you should you become incapacitated, your medical providers and your family members will all know without a doubt what you would have wanted them to do. 

A trust (or many trusts) – A trust owns your assets in an entity outside of your name. You create the trust and then designate someone to manage the property in the trust for the benefit of your heirs or beneficiaries. Trusts are largely considered the most crucial estate planning document that you can have in your plan because they offer solid protection for your assets against creditors, in the face of unexpected life events like illness or divorce, and government financial aid programs like Medicaid, trusts also avoid probate upon your death. There are many different kinds of trusts, and our Saraland estate planning lawyers can help you choose the ones that most closely align with your goals. 

A durable power of attorney – This estate planning document gives someone that you trust the authority to make legal and financial decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated and cannot make them for yourself. You can set limitations on what they can and can’t do in your name, as well as how long they are able to act in your stead. If you can’t handle your own daily responsibilities (like keeping up your home or property, managing your finances, making sure your bills are paid, etc.), having power of attorney can give you peace of mind that those matters will be tended to.

Beneficiary designations – Naming one or more beneficiaries on your accounts, such as retirement accounts, bank accounts, life insurance policies, annuities, etc. can allow them to pass directly to the individuals you want to inherit or manage them following your death. 

And more!

How Does An Estate Plan Affect My Family After I’m Gone?

Many people don’t know that even if they have a will, their estate must still pass through probate, which is a long and expensive court procedure that must take place in order to validate the will and ensure their last wishes are carried out. With a comprehensive estate plan that includes the above elements, you can keep your estate out of the hands of the court and in the hands of your family. They will be able to inherit the money and property you intended for them to have immediately and remain protected from other potential threats, like will and trust contests. 

Our Saraland Estate Planning Lawyers Can Ensure That Your Legacy Is Protected

We are a firm that cares about your unique perspective and objectives. Your loved ones will be extremely grateful for the time and effort that you dedicated to planning your estate so that they could reap the benefits. Call our team today and let us help you take the first step in the right direction!