When life transitions are unclear, I can be your point of balance offering estate planning services.  At such times, I find people are searching for future alternatives to our state laws that will work better for their particular circumstances.  And the GOOD NEWS is: YOU HAVE ALTERNATIVES!

Estate Planning

Here is some information about the estate planning services I offer and why you may want to choose these services. Elizabeth Winter offers a complimentary one half hour initial consultation to describe her estate planning services.  To schedule a complimentary one half hour initial consultation, feel free to contact Elizabeth.

 

THE PROCESS

The subject matter of Estate Planning can be sensitive as it may be clouded with confusion.  And, confusion can be multi-layered.  We may experience feelings of anxiety that keep us from making estate plans.  Or, we can be overwhelmed with paperwork and details that interfere with our ability to accomplish estate plans. In my experience, individuals benefit when a process to discuss estate planning can be created that is supportive of their lifetime accomplishments and their future plans. I believe that components of such a process include addressing one’s legacy of intangible acquisitions as well as tangible assets.  I maintain an encompassing approach that is inclusive of what we truly leave to the future as an inheritance.

 

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DON’T HAVE AN ESTATE PLAN?

Arizona has laws that apply to the estate of a descendent.  Certain laws will apply in the event an individual does not leave a Last Will and Testament.

 

The real question facing individuals is whether these laws work for them under their particular circumstances.  

 

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DO HAVE AN ESTATE PLAN?

Importantly, you first have the opportunity to review with an attorney whether Arizona laws work for you under your unique situation.

 

If you find you would like to create alternatives to these existing state laws, the list of your alternatives may include the following:

• WILL:  A Will is a legal document that becomes effective upon your death and can accomplish many directives including:
• How you would like your assets distributed;
• Who you would like to care for your minor children;
• Who you would like to appoint as Personal Representative of your estate.

 

• TRUST:  A Trust can accomplish objectives such as:
• Managing the property of your minor children
• Avoiding probate
• Avoiding estate taxes

• FINANCIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY: This legal document allows you to appoint an individual to handle your financial affairs if you are unable to handle your own financial affairs.

 

• MEDICAL POWER OF ATTORNEY: This legal document allows you to appoint an individual to make medical determinations for you if you are unable to make those determinations for yourself.

• LIVING WILL:  With a Living Will, you are able to assist your medical care providers and family members with your advance directions regarding end of life care.

 

ROLE OF AN ATTORNEY

Only Arizona licensed attorneys are authorized in Arizona to give legal counsel and advice regarding Estate Planning. They are also authorized to prepare Estate Planning legal documents.

 

MY GOAL is to create a process that brings clarity to confusion and is supportive of your life time achievements and your future plans.  If this is also YOUR GOAL, please contact Elizabeth A. Winter, Esq. for an appointment.

 

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