When planning for the future, it is important to examine your financial situation and decide what you what to happen with your assets later in life or upon your death. You should also think about your health and how you may want your family to handle medical decisions should you become ill. At the Law Offices of Terrence Fantauzzi, a Los Angeles trust and estate lawyer can help you build an effective plan that benefits you and your heirs emotionally and economically.
The Law Offices of Terrence Fantauzzi can help you measure your assets, determine your needs, and draft legal documents that carry the intended impact. Our legal team could also help you navigate the probate process after the loss of a loved one. Reach out to us today to start discussing your situation.
Common Documents Used in Trusts and Estates Law
Many individuals believe drafting a will is all they need to do to prepare for the future. While a will is a vital part of any future plan, there are many other documents that can be used to prepare families for difficult times.
Wills
A will is a document that details how a person would like their property distributed upon their death. These legal documents must be authorized by a probate court to be considered valid.
Trusts
Trusts are used to transfer property to others. While these documents can allow for heirs to receive assets upon the trust maker’s death, the distribution of assets may be set before then. Trusts offer tax benefits and are not required to go through the probate court.
Power of Attorney
Power of attorney is a document that gives a person authority to make decisions on another party’s behalf. An individual might draft one of these legal documents if they have a progressing illness that could impact their ability to make decisions.
Terrence Fantauzzi, a local attorney experienced in trusts and estates law could help families understand the differences between these types of documents and draft the paperwork to ensure it meets all legal requirements.
Supporting Families Throughout the Probate Process
When a person passes away, their will must be validated by a probate court. If an individual’s will excludes a person who might otherwise stand to inherit assets, that individual may argue that the will is invalid. This would result in the court applying the state’s intestacy laws under California Probate Code § 6402. Any family members who believe a will is invalid could benefit from the support of Terrence Fantauzzi, a dedicated trusts and estates attorney.
Reach Out to a Los Angeles Trusts and Estates Attorney Today
Significant life events such as illness and death can affect your family’s legal rights and claims to property for years to come; it is important to retain control over certain situations through trust and estate documents. Working with an attorney like Terrence Fantauzzi to prepare for your future can save your family a significant amount of stress in the future.
Whether you are looking to create an estate plan, need to modify existing documents, or are looking for guidance through the probate process, Terrence Fantauzzi, a Los Angeles trust and estate lawyer may be able to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.