Legal planning is easier when you understand the vocabulary and the decisions in front of you. These resources are designed to help you prepare better questions and recognize when individualized legal advice may be useful.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Will or a Trust?
There is no universal answer. The right structure depends on your assets, family, goals, property ownership, beneficiary arrangements, and how you want matters handled during incapacity and after death.
Does having a Will avoid probate?
A Will generally provides instructions for property that passes through the probate estate; it does not, by itself, make probate unnecessary. How assets are titled and whether they have valid beneficiary designations also matters.
When should I update my estate plan?
Review your plan after major family, financial, health, or property changes—and periodically even when nothing dramatic has happened.
What should I bring to an estate consultation?
A general list of assets and debts, information about family members and intended decision-makers, existing estate-planning documents, and any specific concerns you want addressed are useful starting points.
What should I do first after someone dies?
Secure important property and records, locate the original Will if one exists, and gather basic information about assets, debts, ownership, and beneficiary designations before making unnecessary transfers or distributions.
Is guardianship always required when someone cannot manage their affairs?
Not necessarily. Existing powers of attorney, health-care documents, trusts, or other arrangements may affect what authority is already available. The specific facts should be reviewed before assuming guardianship is required.
These materials are educational and are not a substitute for legal advice about a specific person, estate, asset, or proceeding.