Estate Planning Essentials in Santa Clarita

Guidance from O'Hare Law Office's Experienced Attorneys

There are many reasons that a person may not have already put an estate plan in place. They may be young and healthy and think that it is not needed yet.

They may not wish to have the necessary conversations, because it is unpleasant or uncomfortable to think about. Or, they may simply think it is unnecessary, or more trouble than it is worth. It has been our experience, however, that no one who took the time to build a solid estate plan went on to regret it.

At O’Hare Law Office, our estate planning attorney has years of experience and is committed to helping people understand their available options when it comes to planning for their assets and beneficiaries.

• "I Don't Have an Estate and Don't Need a Plan" -- You Actually Have One. Here's Why.

Learn more about what an estate plan might include. Contact O'Hare Law Office online or call (661) 250-6861 for a consultation with an attorney in Santa Clarita.

When Do You Need An Estate Plan?

Estate planning can be highly beneficial for everyone, not just the wealthy. We would recommend that anyone of legal age should create an estate plan.

We recommend this because once you turn 18, you are responsible for your:

• Finances
• Family
• Power of attorney
• And more

When creating your estate plan, you should consider:

• Your personal finances
• Any property you own
• Any property you own with a spouse
• Any property after divorce
• Any property if you have remarried
• And your children

Regarding your children, you will need to consider:

• Who you want to become their legal guardian after you pass
• Who you trust to be responsible for their financial security
• Who you want to inherit your property
• Who you want to inherit your money

Your estate plan should be updated every 3 - 5 years so it remains consistent with any major changes in your life.

Why Do I Need An Estate Plan?

The main reason why people create an estate plan are for protecting the beneficiaries, both minor and adult. If there are minor beneficiaries, they must be appointed a guardian or conservator so their needs and finances are cared for until they become legal adults.

Adult beneficiaries are to be protected from:

• Bad decisions
• Outside influences
• Divorcing spouses
• And creditor issues

Other reasons why estate planning is necessary:

• Avoiding or minimizing the time in probate court
• Reducing estate taxes
• Easing the burden of stress on family members and loved ones

Not only are you ensuring that your assets are distributed properly and your wishes are carried out, but you are also ensuring that your family has one less thing to worry about.

These estate plans mean that instead of having to guess at what you would want or having to spend a great deal of time or money in probate court, they are able to focus on grieving, healing, and celebrating the life of their loved one.

Probate vs. Estate Planning

What’s the Difference?

Probate is the legal process of making a will or trust enforceable in court as well as paying final debts and distributing assets after a person's death. Estate planning is when you put together a financial plan, such as a will or trust, and decide who will and manage your estate after your death or incapacitation. In short, estate planning can help your loved ones avoid an expensive and time-consuming process.

Need help with your probate or estate planning matter? Contact O'Hare Law Office today to get started.

Protect Your Assets & Your Beneficiaries With O’Hare Law Office

As an experienced Santa Clarita estate planning lawyer, Edward O’Hare knows what can happen when a person passes away without having established an estate plan. Our firm is committed to helping make estate planning a straightforward and stress-free experience.

What To Bring to Your First Meeting With an Estate Planning Attorney

We understand that estate planning can be overwhelming, especially if you have never really considered how to prepare your financial affairs for the future or what you need to protect your legacy.

Our friendly legal professionals at O'Hare Law Office are ready to assist with all of your estate planning needs.

To help us deliver the most comprehensive plan for your estate, we kindly ask that you bring following items to your first meeting with our attorneys:

• A list of questions or concerns you have regarding specific areas of estate planning
• Your most recent bank, investment, and retirement account statements
• A list if all your debts, such as mortgages, car loans, and medical bills
• A copy of your retirement plan and life insurance policies
• Names, addresses, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, and birth certificates or adoption papers for any beneficiaries you plan to name in your will or trusts
• Contact information for your doctor or any specialists that you see for a health condition
• A list of potential candidates you trust to handle the distribution of assets and property in your estate
• A list of your overall estate planning goals

How We Can Help

When you meet with our attorneys, you can expect us to break down your estate into simple concepts so that we can advise and help you create a plan that is fully cohesive and in alignment with your best interests.

Our team has a wealth of knowledge to offer for your estate planning matters and we will always treat you like a member of our family while providing stellar legal representation.

Related Reading

• No Will? California Already Has You Covered, but Is It What You Want?

Want to learn more about estate plans and whether or not you need one? Call us at (661) 250-6861 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.
Begin setting up a plan that suits your unique needs and concerns.