Estate Planning Attorney in Charlotte, NC

Wills

A Will, sometimes called a Last Will and Testament, is a document that outlines your wishes as to how your assets are to be distributed after your death. If a person dies without a valid Will, state statutes and the court system will determine how your assets are distributed and who will care for any minor children. Whether you need help drafting a will or wish to update one you already have, we’ll ensure it’s valid, properly executed, and meets all North Carolina legal requirements.

Trusts

A Trust arranges for the distribution of assets from you to a person or persons of your choosing, who are referred to as beneficiaries. The most common types of trusts are Irrevocable Trusts and Revocable Trusts. We assist clients in drafting both types of trusts depending on their estate planning needs. In addition to these types of trusts, we also assist with trust modifications and establishing Gun Trusts.

Durable Power of Attorney

A Durable Power of Attorney is a form that appoints an Agent to manage a wide range of the Grantor’s affairs, often involving financial and property transactions. Unlike a Healthcare Power of Attorney, a Durable Power of Attorney typically comes into existence immediately upon execution of the document, so it is imperative that someone you trust is nominated as your Agent. We’ll help you choose the right agent and understand the authority you’re giving them.

Healthcare/Medical Power of Attorney

A Healthcare Power of Attorney is a form that allows an individual to make critical medical decisions on your behalf. In assisting you with drafting your Healthcare Power of Attorney, we will take the time to ensure you understand the powers you are granting, consider any limitations of said, and help you carefully consider the individual(s) you are nominating to act as your Healthcare Agent.

Gun Trusts

A gun trust is unique because it allows you to transfer firearm titles more easily and efficiently upon passing. This type of trust can be especially useful for gun collectors and weapons enthusiasts who plan for their arms to be part of their estate inheritance. With the stringent federal and state regulations that apply to the ownership of firearms, a gun trust can carve the path to a smooth and legally compliant transfer.

Asset Protection

Asset protection is a piece of the planning process used to shield your assets from actions such as legal judgements, creditor claims, and/or claims by ex-spouses. A number of legal tools are used to achieve these goals, such as Irrevocable Trusts, insurance policies, a Limited Liability Company (LLC), or a Family Limited Partnership (FLP). From businesses you own to physical property such as real estate to financial assets like your retirement fund, we’ll create a plan to help safeguard all your assets and secure what you’ve earned.

Probate & Estate Planning

Estate administration or Probate involves the process of validating and administering the terms of an individuals Will after they die or administering the person’s estate per State statute if they die intestate. The probate process can be time-consuming and expensive, which may delay assets being distributed to your heirs and significantly reduce the value of your estate. It is important to consider planning options to avoid probate or significantly reduce the amount of assets going through probate upon your death. We’ll guide you through this process and ensure all assets are distributed correctly.

Charitable Giving

Planning for charitable giving should may be part of your North Carolina estate plan. Special types of trusts such as charitable lead or charitable remainder trusts can provide creative solutions to minimize estate tax while allowing you to donate to charity as you see fit. In fact, giving to charity during your lifetime and after your death can significantly reduce taxes on your estate.

Business Succession Planning

When you’ve worked hard to build a thriving business, you want to ensure its seamless transfer and success after your death. You should have the final say in how your business is run. To achieve that, our estate planning attorneys work with you to understand your goals and expectations, then reach the best way to transfer your business.

Guardianship

In the event of an untimely death, your estate plan can be used to express your wishes as to who you nominate to take custody of and care for your minor children. The failure to appoint a guardian for your children under 18 will result in the court appointing a guardian without your input. If you have minor children or plan to in the future, your estate plan must detail your wishes when it comes to appointing a guardian in the event of your death.

Drafting Services

Estate planning is a sensitive but essential process that ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected. Whether you’re creating a new will, establishing a trust, or preparing a power of attorney, provide comprehensive attorney drafting services tailored to meet your specific needs.