If you’ve made the decision to contact an estate planning attorney to start preparing for the future, you should be proud! This is an essential step many do not take. As such, understanding how to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible can help make it less overwhelming. Luckily, there are steps you can take to prepare for this meeting to make it easier. Keep reading to learn how to better prepare for your appointment with a Washtenaw County estate planning attorney.
What Documents Do I Need to Bring to My Initial Meeting With an Estate Planning Attorney?
When meeting with an estate planning lawyer for the first time, you’ll need to bring a few vital documents to help give them an idea of the state of your assets.
The most important thing you must bring is a file of your financial records. This includes your bank statements, any debt you owe, mortgages, bonds, and deeds to property. This is vital, as it helps give your attorney an idea of your financial status. You should also bring any information about businesses you own, stock certificates, and life insurance details.
Next, you’ll want to bring a list of intended beneficiaries and corresponding assets you intend to leave to them. You should also note down their contact information. Ensuring you have an idea of who you want to receive which assets is crucial, as this is one of the most essential steps in the process. Without this, your estate will be distributed according to the Michigan line of succession.
Finally, you’ll want to bring a list of those you plan on naming as executors. This includes their names and what position you would like to appoint them to (e.g., who will be the executor of your will, the trustee, your medical power of attorney).
What Else Should I Consider?
You’ll also want to ensure you write down any questions you have regarding the process of planning our estate. For example, you and your spouse may want to create a mirror will, so asking your attorney any question you have surrounding this process is vital. You should also ask any questions about which type of trust is best for your needs.
Additionally, you should inform your attorney if you plan on leaving assets to a family member with special needs, as they can help you establish a special needs trust. Unfortunately, if you leave them an inheritance through a will or other kind of trust, it can disqualify them from governmental assistance programs.
At Collis, Griffor & Hendra, our dedicated legal team understands that estate planning can be overwhelming. As such, it’s our goal to help make this process as simple as possible. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you through this process to provide you peace of mind.
