Potential clients–especially the younger, more tech-savvy generation–often ask why they should see an attorney about wills when forms are readily available at the click of a button. Simply put, a will is not something that you should tackle on your own. Damon Hopkins, a qualified estate and probate planning attorney, assesses your current situation and can devote more attention to making wills and developing comprehensive estate plans. Life is complicated, and family dynamics often come into play when drafting an estate plan. A form has no way of counseling you on any emotionally-charged issues, or can it provide much-needed advice during these sometimes precarious proceedings.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Creating a Will Online
According to the AARP article, Haven’t Done a Will Yet?, “only 4 in 10 American adults have a will or living trust.” If you decide to do your estate planning online and by yourself, the advantage is that you will have a plan as quickly and cheaply as possible. For some, that may be better than having no plan at all–especially in regards to getting a will, power of attorney, and advance health care directive. The reality is, many people have no idea what they want or need when it comes to estate planning. Once you get into the complexities of family dynamics, specific laws regarding your home state, and any other unique factors for your particular situation; online estate planning can cause many more challenges compared to working with a team of dedicated professionals. While many of us would prefer to fill in the blanks at their own convenience, some of these online documents can lay estate planning traps, rather than helping you save time and money. Call estate law attorney, Damon C. Hopkins to get professional advice and a free consultation regarding the creation of a will.
What are Other Required Documents for Estate Planning?
Many people believe that having an estate plan means drafting a will or a trust. However, there is much more to include in your estate planning to make sure all of your assets are transferred seamlessly to your heirs upon end-of-life. A successful estate plan also includes provisions allowing family members to access or control assets should the grantor become unable to do so. Here is a list of items every estate plan should include:
- Will/trust
- A durable power of attorney
- Beneficiary designations
- Letter of intent
- Healthcare power of attorney
- Guardianship designations
Individuals put off estate planning because they think they don’t own enough, they’re not old enough, are too busy, or are confused and don’t know who can help them. But estate planning could be the most important exercise ever performed during one’s lifetime to give peace of mind and ensures the next generation receives the fair amount owed to them.
Damon C. Hopkins – Your Erie, PA Estate Administration Lawyer
The best way to avoid mistakes when making wills is to consult with an experienced estate planning attorney like Damon C. Hopkins with offices in Erie, PA. It could save your family from unnecessary stress, and ensures they receive both your probate and non-probate assets as intended. Damon C. Hopkins provides over 22 years of experience to people in need of legal assistance in settling the estate of a loved one. Attorney Hopkins personally handles every estate, taking the time to learn the specific details of your case, looking out for all potential problems, and assuring the timely settlement of the estate. If you are in Erie County, including Edinboro, North East, Corry, Girard, and other surrounding townships, call Damon C. Hopkins today.
