Gain Peace of Mind with Estate Planning Services in Grand Rapids, MI
When most people think of estate planning, they think about asset distribution, meaning determining who will inherit your assets. While this is an important part of estate planning, it is only part of the equation. A comprehensive estate plan will include numerous documents to help you ensure that your family’s needs are met after you’re gone and that your own needs and wishes are met if you become ill or injured and unable to manage your health and finances. Attorney Ivan Shaw at Arnson VanTol Law can help you customize your estate plan and alter it as needed to ensure it accounts for your current lifestyle and preferences.
Alternatively, you may also need the guidance of a lawyer if a loved one has passed, and you are an administrator of their estate. Ivan can help you navigate the probate process, assisting in necessary legal proceedings so that you can focus on grieving your loved one.
Estate Law
Meet Ivan Shaw, Michigan Estate Planning and Probate Attorney
Estate planning is a complex and emotional process, so it is helpful to work with an attorney who will provide a personalized approach to estate planning and help you focus on what matters most for your legacy. Ivan Shaw has been practicing law since 2001 when he graduated cum laude from Thomas Cooley Law School in Lansing, MI. He focuses solely on estate planning and estate administration and works closely with his clients to identify the right solutions for their needs.
The future is full of uncertainty, and it is always difficult to think about our own mortality. Don’t go at it alone. Trust Ivan to provide you with the knowledge and wisdom you need to make sound decisions for your family’s future.
A Closer Look at the Estate Planning Process: Create a Plan for Your Family’s Future
There are several core documents that should be included in your estate plan, including a will, trust, durable power of attorney, and healthcare power of attorney. Many people falsely assume that a will is enough, but this will only outline your intentions regarding asset distribution, and it may not be followed to the letter if it is contested. Creating and funding a trust can allow you to transfer your assets faster and more smoothly, protecting your loved ones and reducing legal fees involved with administering your estate. With a durable power of attorney and health care power of attorney, a trusted individual will have the ability to make financial and medical decisions on your behalf should you become disabled and unable to communicate your wishes.
Ivan Shaw has decades of experience in preparing individualized estate plans, and he will work closely with you to protect your assets and your best interests. Because it is common for estate planning needs to change in various phases of life, Ivan also takes the time to build ongoing client relationships, so you can update your estate plan with ease.
Navigate Probate with a Trusted Attorney
Upon a loved one’s passing, you may be charged with the responsibility of overseeing their estate as an administrator. Not only will you be responsible for collecting the deceased’s assets and paying creditors, but you will also need to file documents in probate court and contact loved ones. This can be a difficult process, especially during a time when you are grieving.
Working with Ivan Shaw will help you follow all necessary procedures for estate administration, so you can honor your loved one’s wishes and efficiently distribute their assets.
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Estate Planning and Probate FAQs
1. When should I begin the process of estate planning?
It’s a common misconception that estate planning isn’t necessary until you reach a certain age, have children, or get married. However, it is impossible to predict the future, and even if you are young and in good health, you may face an accident or other unexpected circumstances that leave your medical and financial decisions in limbo. Creating an estate plan earlier in life ensures that you and your family are protected in the event of the unexpected.
2. Can I alter my estate plan?
3. What is probate?
Probate is a court supervised process in which an individual’s estate is administered. Probate includes paying debts and taxes, distributing assets, and clearing titles to various assets in probate court. Probate is a common process after an individual passes, but it is not always required. For example, if assets are jointly owned with another individual or placed in a trust, probate can be avoided.
4. Why do I need to work with an estate planning attorney?
There are very specific procedures that must be followed when drafting an estate plan, so this process should not be handled without the knowledge and insight of a trusted attorney.
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