Why Work with an Atlanta Estate Planning Lawyer?
After working hard your entire life, you want to make sure that your loved ones are protected and that you can pass on your legacy, as well as an inheritance, to them. Still, over half of the adults in the United States do not even have a will, the most basic of estate planning documents. Failing to have an estate plan in place can create issues with inheritances, taxes, and how quickly your loved ones receive the property you have left for them.
If you want to avoid the issues that come with not having an estate plan, it is important to draft the important documents now. Although it is tempting to use online templates and do-it-yourself options, this is not recommended. Below are a few reasons to work with an Atlanta estate planning lawyer.
A Lawyer Can Help Ease the Burden
If you have never planned for your estate, the thought alone can be very confusing. In fact, this is one factor that keeps people from drafting a comprehensive plan. However, estate planning can be quite easy when you work with an experienced attorney. A lawyer will review a list of your property and who you want to leave it to after you pass away. They can also help with the continued management of your assets during your lifetime. A lawyer will help you create a personalized plan that is right for your situation and that you can change at any time.
A Lawyer Can Help You Avoid Probate
Without preparing an appropriate plan, your property will likely be subject to probate after you pass away. Probate is the legal process of validating your will and provides creditors with a limited amount of time to file a claim against your estate. This can deplete the assets you had hoped to leave for your family members. However, when drafting an estate plan you can use tools such as trusts that can help your loved ones avoid probate, which is also a long and expensive process.
A Lawyer Can Ensure Legal Compliance
Estate planning documents are only effective if they are legally valid. There are many requirements placed on these documents. For example, wills in Georgia must be written with someone of sound mind, in writing, and the testator, or person making the will, must sign the document. Two witnesses must also sign the will in the presence of the testator. Other documents are also governed by legal requirements. A lawyer will ensure your plan complies with these laws so your loved ones have the protection you intended.
Our Estate Planning Lawyer in Atlanta Can Help
At The Forsythe Law Firm, LLC, our Atlanta estate planning lawyer can review the facts of your case, advise on the documents to include in your plan, and ensure they are executed properly so yours is legally valid. Call us today at 404-476-2717 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorney and to learn more about how we can help with your case.
