The representation that the attorneys at the law firm of Patterson, Hanna & Associates provide is particularly important in the area of estate planning. To be truly effective, estate plans need to be customized to your needs, rather than offered as one-size-fits-all. We will work closely with you to create an estate plan that fits you.
Since 1985, we have been providing estate planning services to people in Orange County and beyond. We have a solid understanding of the four components of a strong plan: trusts, wills, powers of attorney and healthcare directives. We will help you understand these components and incorporate them into a plan that is designed specifically for you.
What is Estate Planning?
Estate planning allows you to organize and arrange your property so that you can dispose of that property at death. A good estate plan will minimize the time and expense of transferring the property to your beneficiaries.
Do you Need Estate Planning?
Everyone can benefit from some estate planning. Estate planning benefits you not only in the orderly passing of your property at death, but also enables you to make sure someone is prepared to manage your property if you are no longer capable to do so.
The benefits of proper planning, include:
- Distribute your property to your beneficiaries
- Avoid the expense and delays associated with probate
- Minimizes or eliminates government fees and taxes
- Reduces or eliminates capital gains on property transfers at death
- Designate someone to manage your if you become incapacitated
- Avoids conflicts in the event it is necessary to appoint someone as a guardian for your children
Revocable Living Trusts
A common misunderstanding is that the most important component of an estate plan is a will. While wills are certainly important, they are not the only way to plan for your future. In fact, there are many things that a trust can accomplish that a will cannot. Trusts are able to:
- Select the person who will manage your estate
- Manage your assets and avoid the probate process
- Reduce or possible eliminate estate taxes at the time of death
Our estate planning lawyers will answer your questions and address your concerns about trusts. We will help you create a revocable living trust to fit your specific needs.
Start With a Free Consultation
To schedule a consultation about estate planning with our California law firm, call us at 714-888-4834 or send us an e-mail.
