According to Nerd Wallet, the three main aspects of estate planning are the preparation of necessary documents, the transfer of funds and assets, and the establishment of healthcare directives and power of attorney where needed. Now that you've scheduled your appointment with an estate attorney, you might be wondering what to expect when you meet with them to review your affairs. Let's take a closer look at what your first appointment might include.

Wills and Estate Matters

The first thing that you can expect an estate attorney to do is to look over your will. This is the starting point of all estate planning with the will acting as a road map. Once they've reviewed your will with you, they'll have a better understanding of your wishes and the best way to see that they're carried out. If you don't yet have a will, this is when you'll discuss your desires for your estate.

Distribution of Funds

Many people leave their entire estates to their surviving spouse or their children. If you have several different bequests that you'd like to make, your estate lawyer will help you draw up the details for those disbursements. Anyone who is leaving funds or assets to non-immediate members of their families should be sure to have all of their wishes clearly outlined in writing. If necessary, this will be when the lawyer might suggest that you establish a trust. For anyone with complex wishes or anyone who has a family that doesn't get along, the more safeguards added to the estate plan, the better.

Power of Attorney Set-Up

Power of attorney status is usually given so that a family member or a trusted friend can oversee matters, usually financial in nature, after the granter has been determined to be incapacitated. It's an important document to add to any estate plan. More people are adding healthcare measures to their end-of-life plans, as well. If you are someone who doesn't want to be resuscitated, or if you have other healthcare directives that you want to be followed, it's important to have your wishes in writing. By giving a trusted loved one power of attorney, you appoint them to handle such wishes if you're unable to do so for yourself.

If you're in need of an estate attorney, now is an ideal time to call our office and schedule an obligation-free consultation. We'll help you make sure that your matters have been settled to your wishes. Reach out to Latham Moffatt, P.C. Attorneys at Law today to get started.