Whether you are planning the parameters of your future medical care or you are establishing support for loved ones upon your death, Collins & Associates can help with all aspects of trusts and estates issues, including:
You work hard for your family, so knowing that you have planned for their long-term well-being and financial security can bring you comfort. We thoroughly analyze your estate and strategize the best means of transferring your assets, minimizing taxes, establishing guardianship for your children, caring for your pets, supporting personal philanthropic causes and protecting your loved ones.
A will is essential at every stage of your life. Your living will sets the parameters for medical intervention if you become incapacitated. This ensures that, when you are most vulnerable, your wishes will be honored.
Your last will provides the opportunity to distribute your property, establish care for your children and otherwise express your wishes upon your death. A will is necessary if you intend to leave property to a person or entity other than a blood relative — such as a domestic partner, a friend or a charity. If you die without a will, it is the court that determines how your property is distributed, who cares for your children and even what happens to your pets — making decisions that might not reflect your desires.
We can draft valid wills to ensure that your intentions are honored.
As your life changes, so might your estate plan. You might need to update your will throughout your life. Collins & Associates drafts valid codicils that address changes in your financial situation, marital status, number of children, philanthropic interests and general lifestyle decisions.
If you have minor children, your will enables you to make decisions about their future care. This is especially crucial if you are a single parent or in the even that both parents were to die in a common incident. If you do not name a guardian, the court will appoint a guardian for your children — and the guardian can make decisions adverse to your ultimate parenting goals. You can also make arrangements for your pets’ care in your will, including naming a guardian to take responsibility for your pets.