When you begin the estate planning process, you likely have many questions for your attorney from the process itself to how the working relationship takes place with your attorney. These are not only valid questions but important ones to ask. At MHPS, we have the answers to your estate planning questions.
Who will be handling my estate planning?
When you begin the estate planning process, knowing that you will be paired with one attorney will likely be important to you, especially if you have a complex estate or simply just feel uncomfortable having your case passed around.
You can rest assured that when you work with us, your estate planning will be in good hands, but always know you can ask your attorney questions about your point of contact throughout the process.
What services do you offer?
This is critical. Some attorneys specialize in trusts, while others do not. Though at MHPS, we can help you with a variety of estate planning tools, including trusts. It is important to know what services your attorney offers before signing any contracts.
What do you need from me to begin the process?
While you need your attorney to be prepared to help you with the estate planning process, you also need to be prepared for meetings. Many attorneys will ask you to bring a list of assets, titles, deeds, and any relevant documents for selecting beneficiaries or executors.
During your initial consultation, your attorney will ensure you know what is needed before the next meeting, but it’s always good to be prepared.
I’m not sure what estate planning documents I need. Can you help me determine that?
Many people believe they just need a will to be secured in the future. But the reality is there are so many more documents that will work to keep you and your loved ones protected and cared for.
Your estate planning attorney will be able to explain the benefits of wills, trusts, advanced directives, etc. and help you to devise a plan that works for you.
I have a business but not a succession plan. Where do I start?
When you are planning for retirement, selling the business, or for the possibility of an emergency, having a business succession plan is critical to your future and that of any employees you may have.
Your attorney will be able to review your goals for the business’s future as well as potential successors to it. From there, you can develop a retirement plan, including preparing any and all financial documents you’ll need to have ready
The executor of the estate needs to be changed. Is this possible?
Be it a change in marital status or the death of a loved one, there are times where you may need to change the successor of the estate and even who will make medical and financial decisions on your behalf.
Whether you have a preexisting estate plan in place, or life events have made you realize that now is the time to devise them, you can certainly change the executors and beneficiaries of your estate, so long as you stand competent to do so.
Our Tennessee Estate Planning Lawyers Are Here to Help
At MHPS, our estate planning lawyers will guide you through the estate planning process with the compassion needed. With years of experience in estate planning and administration, we know how to best protect your assets and prepare for the unknown.
If you’re ready to begin the estate planning process but have questions on how to get started, we’re here to help. Contact us at MHPS now for more information.
