ESTATE PLANNING

Do you need an Estate Plan?  The answer is a resounding YES! 

Is Estate Planning only for people who have a lot of assets?  No, there are many reasons to have an Estate Plan.

An Estate Plan allows you to leave your assets to the people and causes that matter most to you.  An Estate Plan allows you to determine who will make medical decisions on your behalf and take care of your finances in the event that you are unable to do so.  Perhaps most importantly to parents of minor children, an Estate Plan allows you to decide who will take care of your children in the event of your death.

A basic Estate Plan includes:
-a last Will and Testament,
-a durable health care power of attorney, which names an agent responsible for medical decision making,
-a durable financial power of attorney, which names an agent responsible for asset management, bill paying and other financial activities,
-a living will or advance directive, which gives instructions concerning the type of care one wishes to receive, or avoid, in the event of terminal illness.

A trust may be appropriate depending on your circumstances.

PERSONAL INJURY

There are many things to consider after you have been injured.  You need to preserve evidence, document your injuries and prove liability.  Later, you will need to negotiate your claim to try to reach a fair settlement.  All this while dealing with your pain and trying to get the treatment that you need to get better.