SERVING FAMILIES THROUGHOUT RHODE ISLAND AND MASSACHUSETTS
If something unexpected were to happen to you, have you considered what would become of your hard-earned assets and the people you care about? Where would your children go? How would your investments be handled? what would hap[pen to your property?
If these questions leave you uncertain, we're here to help you find the answers. Together, we will assess your situation and determine the best course of action for you and your family to leave a legacy.
HOW WE CAN ASSIST
To begin, we'll take the time to get to know each other and understand your estate planning goals. We'll delve into your current assets and discuss your vision for your family's well-being. If you decide that changes are necessary and we find ourselves aligned, we will craft an estate plan that leaves you confident in the choices you've made for your loved ones.
THE FOUNDATION OF YOUR ESTATE PLAN WILL OFTEN INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:
Last Will and Testament – Your Will empowers you to appoint an individual who will oversee your estate and distribute your assets to designated individuals according to your wishes. Your Will can also address matters such as creating trusts, determining the guardianship of your minor children, and more.
Power of Attorney – A Power of Attorney allows you to designate a trusted person to handle your financial decisions. This document can grant immediate authority to your agent or become effective only in the event of your incapacitation. Without a Power of Attorney, a court may need to appoint a Conservator to manage your financial affairs if you are unable to do so.
Healthcare Directives / Living Will – By having a Health Care Proxy and HIPAA Release, you can select a trusted individual to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to communicate or decide for yourself. These directives eliminate the need for a court-appointed Guardian to make medical choices on your behalf.
Trust – A Trust is a legal agreement that enables you to transfer ownership of assets to a separate entity for the purpose of protecting and preserving those assets for your benefit and/or that of your loved ones. Trusts can be utilized to provide support for your spouse and children, safeguard assets from creditors, maintain eligibility for government benefits, avoid probate, minimize estate taxes, and dictate the use or distribution of assets after your passing.
WHY ESTATE PLANNING IS IMPORTANT
Protecting Your Loved Ones - Estate planning ensures that your loved ones are provided for and protected after your passing. It allows you to designate guardians for minor children, provide financial support, and minimize conflicts among family members.
Preserving Your Assets - Through estate planning, you can protect your hard-earned assets and ensure they are distributed according to your wishes. It allows you to minimize taxes, avoid probate, and create trusts to preserve and manage your wealth for future generations.
Healthcare Decision-making - Estate planning includes healthcare directives that enable you to appoint someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. This ensures that your healthcare preferences are respected and alleviates the burden on your loved ones during difficult times.
Avoiding Intestacy Laws - Without an estate plan, your assets may be subject to intestacy laws, which can result in distribution according to default rules that may not align with your wishes. Estate planning allows you to have control over who receives your assets and how they are distributed.
Business Succession Planning - For business owners, estate planning is crucial for a smooth transition of ownership and management. It allows you to designate successors, outline succession plans, and ensure the continued operation and success of your business.
Peace of Mind - Perhaps most importantly, estate planning provides you with peace of mind. It gives you the confidence that your loved ones will be taken care of, your assets will be protected, and your wishes will be respected. By planning ahead, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have taken steps to secure your family's future.
Remember, estate planning is not just for the wealthy or the elderly. It is a proactive step that everyone should take to protect their loved ones and assets. Contact Senerchia & Senerchia P.C. experienced estate planning professional to create a personalized plan that reflects your unique circumstances and goals.
