Securing Your Future And Protecting Your Loved Ones
Estate planning is fundamental in securing your future and protecting your loved ones. No one wants to think about their own mortality, but an estate plan lets you take control by making clear decisions about who gets your assets. It also helps ensure that your wishes are fulfilled during your lifetime and beyond.
As an experienced estate planning attorney, I will diligently craft a comprehensive estate plan that incorporates your best interest, advances your legal and personal goals and I will help clients navigate the challenging probate process and advocate to safeguard your assets and your family’s future.
Craft A Will That Protects Your Legacy And Your Family’s Future
A well-prepared will is the cornerstone of a solid estate plan. A will encompasses crucial elements, including designating a guardian for young children.
Drafting a healthcare directive and a durable power of attorney are also vitally important. These documents protect your preferences for handling healthcare matters and financial affairs, should you be unable to make these decisions yourself.
With over a decade of experience, I can help you create and tailor these essential documents to fit your situation and advise you on keeping them up-to-date if life circumstances change, including divorce, marriage or another significant event.
Skillful Assistance Helping You Through Probate
Probate involves the legal administration and distribution of a “decedent’s” estate. As a compassionate and knowledgeable probate attorney, I can provide the necessary assistance to help you through the complicated probate process. I can also explore strategies on how to avoid probate altogether through careful estate planning.
Probate can be a complex process for executors and beneficiaries. If a loved one has chosen you to manage their estate as an executor, you can turn to me for clarity on the duties and responsibilities of executors. I can guide you through the entire process.
As a beneficiary, if you believe irregularities exist in the administration of a loved one’s estate, I can defend your rights through probate litigation if necessary. My job is to protect your interests while honoring your loved one’s wishes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Estate Planning And Probate In Georgia
Planning your estate helps you decide what happens to your property and who can make decisions for you if you cannot. Here are answers to common questions about estate planning in Georgia and keeping your documents up to date.
Why is estate planning important in Georgia?
An estate plan lets you decide who will inherit your property and who will handle important matters if you cannot make decisions yourself. A will can name a guardian for your minor children and explain how you want to divide your assets. A Georgia Advance Directive for Health Care lets you name an agent to make medical decisions if you become incapacitated. A statutory financial power of attorney authorizes a representative to manage your financial and legal matters. These documents help your loved ones understand your wishes and manage important decisions.
What happens if I die without a will in Georgia?
If you die without a will in Georgia, state law determines who inherits your property. If you leave a spouse and children, they share your estate equally, but your spouse’s share cannot fall below one-third. A surviving spouse may also petition for year’s support, which takes priority over other distributions under intestacy law. If you have no spouse or children, other relatives may inherit under state law. Without a will, you also cannot nominate your preferred guardian for your minor children through that document. The court makes the final guardianship decision.
When should I update my estate planning documents?
Review your estate plan after major life changes such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child or the death of a loved one. You may also need to update it when you buy property, start a business or experience a major change in your finances. If your wishes change or you want to name a different executor, financial agent or healthcare agent, review your documents as well. Regular updates help keep your plan in line with your current needs and wishes.
A well-prepared estate plan can give you peace of mind and help your family understand your wishes. I can help you create or update your documents to fit your circumstances and goals.
Schedule A Consultation Today
I am committed to supporting you through every phase of estate planning and probate. Call Anna Perry Law, LLC at 770-450-5809 or email me to schedule a consultation.