Trusts & Estates

Berks County Estate Planning, Wills, Trust & Probate Attorneys

Securing Your Family's Future

No one likes to think about what will happen when they pass away, or if they become incapacitated. However, thinking about it now, when you are able to make these important decisions, can save you and your family from serious problems later. At Hoffert, Huckabee & Weiler, our estate administration lawyers can assist you with all of your estate planning needs. If you want to make sure that your final wishes are carried out, contact Hoffert, Huckabee & Weiler to consult an estate planning attorney.

Basic Estate Planning: What Every Adult Should Have

Will

A will dispenses your property, pays your debts, and, when applicable, makes provisions to care for children. Once you make a will, it is a good idea to revisit it every few years or whenever there is a family milestone. If you do not make a will, your estate may spend more time in probate, and more of your estate might be used to pay estate taxes. Without a will, your assets may not go where you want them to go.

Estate Administration

When someone passes away, many important legal matters must be addressed. The process of proving a will, known as probate, can be complex and time consuming. Our attorneys handle both probate and non-probate administration. We work one-on-one with our clients to make sure that the decedent's final wishes are truly followed. We probate the will, arrange for payment of the bills, make the distribution, file tax returns, and handle all the legal issues that arise concerning a person's estate. During this difficult time, you need a lawyer you can count on to give you the personal attention and service you deserve.

General Power of Attorney

A Power of Attorney (POA) gives another person the ability to make financial decisions on your behalf. If you should become incapacitated, it is important for a person you trust to take care of your business and finances so that they do not suffer.

Living Wills

A general power of attorney does not allow anyone to make health decisions on your behalf. In order to give them that power, you need a healthcare POA. Included in the healthcare POA is a "living will," which outlines what kind of life-saving measures you want your healthcare provider to take if you are incapacitated with no chance of revival.

Trusts

If your estate is more complicated, the judicious use of trusts can be very helpful. These may include:

• Education trusts
• Family trusts
• Charitable trusts

Unlike wills, you can use trusts while you are still alive for nursing home planning or the financial protection of minor children. You may also be able to use them to lessen your estate tax burden. For more details, contact our office. We would be happy to discuss your options with you.