Reading and Berks County, Pennsylvania, Estate Planning, Wills, Trust and 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, P.C., our 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, P.C., to consult an estate planning attorney. Call us toll free at 888-434-9531.
Basic Estate Planning: What Every Adult Should Have and Understand
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.
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 these 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 someone that power, you need a health care POA. Included in the health care POA is a "living will," which outlines what kind of life-saving measures you want your health care 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.
Estate Administration and Probate
Our firm handles estate issues that arise after the death of a loved one through processes often known as estate administration and probate. These can be complicated and overwhelming to handle on your own, especially when grieving a loss. Our skilled probate lawyers can walk you through the process, address issues and take care of estate issues for you.
Contact a Reading and Berks County, Pennsylvania, Estate Planning Attorney Today
For more details, contact our office by calling our toll-free number: 888-434-9531. We would be happy to discuss your wills, trusts and other estate planning options with you.