No one likes to think about what will happen when they pass away or become incapacitated, which may explain why so many people put off estate planning. But if you put it off until tomorrow, you might put it off forever.

Create your estate plan now, while planning can make the biggest difference — and while you are able to make these important decisions. Protect your family from unnecessary worry and expense, and protect yourself in case of sudden incapacity. It's time to begin.

At Huckabee, Weiler, & Levengood, P.C., we can assist you with all of your estate planning needs, including designating trusted people to handle your affairs should you be unable to do so. Contact Huckabee, Weiler, & Levengood, P.C., to discuss your goals with an experienced estate planning lawyer.

Basic Estate Planning: What Every Adult Should Have

A valid, updated Last Will & Testament

A will dispenses your property, pays your debts, and when applicable, makes provisions to care for children. Once you make a will, it is a good idea to revisit it every few years or whenever there is a family milestone. If you do not make a will, your estate may spend more time in probate, and more of your estate might be used to pay estate taxes. Without a will, your assets may not go where you intended.

A General Power of Attorney

A power of attorney (POA) gives another person the ability to make financial decisions on your behalf. If you should become incapacitated, it is important for a person you trust to take care of your business and finances so that these do not suffer.

A Healthcare POA/Living Will

A general power of attorney does not allow anyone to make health decisions on your behalf. In order to give someone that power, you need a health care POA. Included in the health care POA is a “living will,” which outlines what kind of life-saving measures you want your health care provider to take if you are incapacitated with no chance of revival.

Trusts

If your estate is more complicated, the judicious use of trusts can be very helpful. These may include:

• Education trusts
• Family trusts
• Charitable trusts

Unlike wills, you can use trusts while you are still alive to achieve certain goals. Some can assist with nursing home planning, while others can provide financial protection for minor children or family members with disabilities. They can also help your family avoid a lengthy probate and lessen the estate tax burden.

Knowledgeable Assistance With Probate And Estate Administration

Our firm can also assist you after the death of a loved one. Pennsylvania's probate and estate administration process can be complicated and overwhelming to handle on your own, especially when grieving a loss. A skilled probate attorney from our firm can walk you through the process and address any legal issues that arise.

Contact Us Now To Get Started

Make sure your medical treatment choices are clear and that your final wishes are carried out. The first step is to contact our Shillington office through our online email form or call us toll free at 610-378-1933.