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Estate Planning Attorneys in Rhode Island

“Estate planning” is a phrase which covers the process of planning matters that vary from “simple” to “complicated”. It's not just about dealing with the idea of “not being around” someday, but also tackling financial concerns, possible taxes, future housing costs and family dynamics, all of which can be troublesome for you and for those who follow you. Beyond the discomfort, however, lies a sense of peace and assurance—knowing that your assets will be appropriately allocated and your family's future secured can provide a sense of relief and control. The process of estate planning does not have to be daunting. With the right guidance, it can be an empowering step towards securing peace of mind and a confident future. 

When it's time to plan for your future, we at The Law Offices of Howe & Garside, Ltd. are here to lighten that burden. We will guide you through the estate planning process with empathy, understanding, and professionalism. If you are looking for support anywhere throughout the state of Rhode Island — including Newport, Jamestown, Portsmouth, Middletown, Tiverton, Lincoln, Providence, Cumberland, Smithfield, North Kingstown, South Kingstown, and more — reach out to schedule a free phone consultation and get the guidance and support you need today.  

What is Involved in Estate Planning?  

Estate planning involves the preparation and management of an individual's assets in anticipation of their incapacitation or death. This process encapsulates various elements, including wills, trusts, power of attorney, healthcare directives, and tax considerations. The purpose of estate planning is to ensure the efficient transfer of a person's estate— their money, possessions, property— to their heirs or beneficiaries according to their wishes. It also aims to mitigate any potential legal challenges, reduce tax liability, and, most importantly, provide peace of mind knowing your loved ones are protected and provided for in your absence. 

Who Can Plan Their Estate? 

Estate planning isn't just for the wealthy or the elderly; it is for everyone. It is an important process for anyone who wants control over what happens to their assets after they're gone. Without an estate plan, you could leave your loved ones facing the time-consuming and costly probate process. By developing a comprehensive estate plan with us, you can avoid this hassle and ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes. 

Moreover, dying without a will, or "intestate," means the state decides who gets what from your estate. This may not reflect your desires and can cause unnecessary stress for your family. Having a will in place gives you control over how your assets are divided, making estate planning essential for peace of mind. 

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Documents That May Be Included in an Estate Plan 

Your estate plan encompasses several important documents, each serving a specific purpose: 

  • Wills: A will is a fundamental document in your estate plan that dictates the distribution of your assets upon your demise. It allows you to appoint beneficiaries, ensuring your assets are transferred according to your wishes. 

  • Trusts: Trusts are legal arrangements facilitating the transfer of your assets to a trustee. The trustee then manages the assets and distributes them based on your directives. Trusts are advantageous in bypassing probate and potentially reducing estate taxes. 

  • Powers of Attorney: This document authorizes another individual to handle your financial affairs in scenarios where you are incapable of doing so yourself. It is a vital tool in estate planning that ensures your financial matters are always in trusted hands. 

  • Advance Directives: Also known as a living will, an advance directive lets you lay down your preferences for medical treatment should you become unable to communicate your decisions in the future. This is necessary so that your health care wishes are respected even during incapacitation.  

  • Guardianship Designations: These documents specify who will care for your minor children in case you and their other parent pass away or become incapacitated. It is important to have these designations in place to ensure the well-being of your children. 

Maintaining the relevance of these critical documents is just as important as their creation. Life is dynamic and changes such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, changes in financial status or health, or even fluctuations in tax laws can all impact your estate plan. By revisiting and updating your estate plan regularly, you ensure that it will continue to reflect your current circumstances and wishes.  

Staying updated with these changes enables your estate plan to remain an accurate representation of your desires, ensuring peace of mind for you and your loved ones. 

The Estate Planning Process 

The process of estate planning involves several important steps. Here is a comprehensive breakdown: 

  1. Evaluation: The first step in estate planning is to evaluate your current financial situation. This includes all your assets, liabilities, income, and expenses.  

  1. Goal Setting: Identify your estate planning goals. This could be anything from ensuring the financial security of a spouse, providing for children or grandchildren, supporting charitable causes, or minimizing potential taxes. 

  1. Drafting the Will: A will is a crucial document that clearly articulates your wishes regarding the distribution of your assets upon your death.  

  1. Establishing Trusts: Depending on your specific needs and objectives, you might consider establishing one or more trusts. Trusts not only provide a level of control over the asset distribution, but they can also offer potential tax benefits. Trusts can be Revocable Trusts, Irrevocable Trusts, Special Needs Trusts and other trusts to fit your needs. 

  1. Durable Power of Attorney: This legal document gives a person of your choice the authority to handle your property and financial affairs if you're unable to do so. 

  1. Advance Health Care Directives: Drafting an advance health care directive or living will can ensure that your preferences for medical treatment are followed when you can't communicate them yourself. 

  1. Guardianship Designations: If you have minor children, appoint a guardian to take care of them should you and the other parent pass away or become incapacitated. 

  1. Review and Update: Regularly review and update your estate plan to ensure it aligns with any changes in your life, such as marriage, divorce, births, deaths, or a change in financial status. 

This process, while complex, can be made simpler and more efficient with the guidance and expertise of a legal professional specialized in estate planning. 

Estate Planning FAQs 

When you work with us, one of our goals is to clarify commonly held misconceptions and equip you with the necessary knowledge to navigate the estate planning process with confidence and ease. Here are just a few common questions. 

What is the difference between a will and a trust? 

A will is a legal document that outlines your wishes for the distribution of your properties and the care of any minor children after your death. On the other hand, a trust is a legal arrangement where one person (the trustee) holds and manages assets for the benefit of others (the beneficiaries). The key difference is that a will comes into effect only after you die, while a trust can be effective immediately, at your death, or sometime after death. 

How often should I update my estate plan? 

Updating your estate plan should be a regular activity and not just a one-time event. You should consider revisiting your estate plan after every major life event, such as a marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or a significant change in your financial status. However, as a rule of thumb, it's good to review your estate plan every three to five years to ensure it still aligns with your current needs and circumstances. 

What is the role of a guardian in an estate plan? 

A guardian, as designated in your estate plan, is a person who you appoint to take care of your minor children should you and the other parent pass away or become unable to care for them. The guardian will be responsible for your children's personal care, including shelter, education, and health care. It's a significant role, and the person chosen should be trustworthy and capable of assuming the responsibilities involved. 

Estate Planning Attorneys Serving Newport & Lincoln, Rhode Island 

Every client's estate planning needs are unique. That's why we take the time to understand your specific circumstances and goals. Whether you need help with a will, creating a trust, or navigating the probate process, we tailor our services to meet your needs and give you peace of mind. 

Our dedicated team of attorneys is ready to guide you through the complexities of estate planning. Don't wait – secure your future today with The Law Offices of Howe & Garside, Ltd. Reach out to us at our offices in Lincoln or Newport, Rhode Island to schedule a free consultation with us by phone, Zoom or in person. We look forward to providing you with the peace of mind that comes from a well-designed estate plan.