The Benefits of Estate Planning

Why You Should Plan Your Estate With an Attorney

No one wants to feel like they are planning for their death. It is something that we don’t want to happen, and we do not want to feel like we are asking for it. This is a common reason why people do not take the time to plan their estate. They feel like they are accepting their eventual passing. However, estate planning is not about that. It is about ensuring the proper and quick distribution of your assets when that time comes. Otherwise, your family and friends may be left in a vulnerable position. Here is why you should plan your estate with your attorney:

• Minimize Estate Taxes: The government always wants its share. They will tax your estate and get what they can out of you. Planning your estate with an attorney can help you minimize the amount of taxes that your family will have to pay on your assets upon transference to them.

• Quicken the Probate Process: Passing without a legal will can cause the settling of your estate to take years. Drafting a will that lays out your final wishes and the distribution of your assets will help the probate courts verify everything and clear your estate.

• Ensures Wishes Are Carried Out: Without documentation, there is no way to know exactly what your final wishes are. That means that the legal system will not be able to verify and enforce your wishes. A will that you draft with your attorney will ensure that your wishes are met.

• Charitable Gifts: Do you have a charity of choice that you want to donate some of your assets to? You can include such wishes in your will and make sure they get the donation that you wanted to give them.

• Reduces Family Conflict: Families will argue over the distribution of your assets when you pass. Several people will fight over a specific item such as your home, vehicle, or jewelry. When you are in the estate planning process, you can dictate exactly who gets what and not give your family the chance to fight amongst themselves.
  

Contact Our Estate Planning Attorney Today!

At Katz and Baehre, we help individuals through the estate planning process in the Buffalo, NY area. Taking the time to plan your estate will help you realize the benefits listed above. We know that you may not know where to begin or how to take the necessary legal action to ensure your final wishes are met in the event of your passing. Our estate planning attorneys can help you draft a will and ensure that all your wishes are met. Contact us today to begin the estate planning process!