Estate Planning
Estate planning is the process of putting legal documents in place to manage your assets and health care decisions during your lifetime, and to direct how your affairs will be handled after your death.
Estate Planning
A well-designed estate plan may include wills, powers of attorney, health care directives, trusts, and other related documents.
When planning, your estate plan should start with a clear understanding of your priorities, family circumstances, and financial and health care wishes, both now and in the future. With the right planning, you can help protect your assets, ensure your health care preferences are honored if you’re unable to speak for yourself, support your loved ones, and make certain your wishes are carried out.
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Do I still need a will if I have a trust?
Yes. Even with a revocable living trust, a pour-over will is typically used as a safety net to catch any assets that weren’t transferred into the trust during your lifetime, ensuring they’re directed into the trust (and distributed according to its terms) after your death.
What’s the difference between a living will and a health care power of attorney?
A living will (advance directive) states your own wishes about life-sustaining treatment, particularly in end-of-life situations. A health care power of attorney appoints someone you trust to actually make medical decisions on your behalf across a broader range of situations. Because they serve different purposes, it’s recommended to have both in place together.
Why do beneficiary designations matter if I already have a will?
Beneficiary designations on bank accounts, retirement plans, life insurance policies, and annuities generally control how those specific assets are distributed — even if your will says otherwise. That’s why it’s important to review and keep these designations current as part of a complete estate plan.
Ready to protect what matters most?
Schedule a consultation with our Pennsylvania estate planning and elder law attorneys today.
