Questions families ask first

Usually, yes. A will names guardians for children and an executor you trust, which matters whatever the estate is worth. Without one, the state's rules decide who inherits and who is in charge.

A will takes effect at death and goes through probate. A funded living trust works during your life and after it, and the property in it passes without probate. A trust costs more to set up; our guide explains when it's worth it.

The estate still goes through the court. An administrator is appointed and state law decides who inherits, which may not be who the person would have chosen.

Even a simple estate usually takes several months to a year or more, mostly waiting on deadlines for creditors and taxes.

Ideally years before care is needed, because of the five-year look-back on gifts. But it's rarely too late to do something useful.

If they signed a durable power of attorney, their agent can act. If not, a court can appoint a guardian or conservator, and we handle that petition.

Yes. We meet by video with clients anywhere in the state, and arrange signings near them.

All of our work on the plan described, including calls and emails along the way. Court and recording fees are passed on at cost and listed on your quote.

Yes. It's thirty minutes by video or phone, and you leave it with a written quote.

Look at it after any marriage, divorce, birth, death or move, and otherwise every few years. Updates to our own plans are quoted at a reduced flat fee.