Wills & Trusts, Estate Administration, Mediation, Collaborative Practice
Wills and Trusts
Clarity, Understanding, Explanations, and Personalized Service
Often people think that you need a lot of assets to need an estate plan. This is not the case. Everyone should have at least a simple will in order to make their wishes known for distributing their assets when they die, and for managing their financial and health care decision if they become incapacitated. An estate planning lawyer can explain the basic tools for expressing your wishes, protecting yourself and your assets and can help you find the best options for you.
Barbara L. Stagg, Attorney at Law, in Cotati, California, provides advice and guidance to those seeking asset protection throughout Sonoma County. She can help you with the following:
- Cataloging your valuable assets and belongings for intentional distribution;
- Deciding what will, trust or other tools are appropriate for your circumstances;
- Picking an executor or trustee to carry out your wishes and administer your estate or trust for the benefit of your designated heirs;
- Communicating and explaining your plan to family and other loved ones to help avoid conflict and confusion after your death or incapacity.
WILL: A will provides for an executor, payment of debts and distribution of assets not covered by joint ownership, trusts or other plans. It also provides for guardianship of minor children.
TRUST: Trusts are useful in a variety of situations and are customized to a client's wishes and circumstances. They can provide substantial tax savings for larger estates, hold assets for a beneficiary with special needs, pay for a grandchild's education or shield assets from a beneficiary's creditors, among other things.
Comprehensive Representation for the Intentional Distribution of Your Assets
During the estate planning process, it can be difficult to determine whether a will, trust or other document will protect and preserve your assets and address the needs of your beneficiaries. Mistakes or unclear documents can cause problems for your family, and one-size-fits all estate plans may contain documents you don't need.
As your attorney, Ms. Stagg will work diligently to help you draft a customized estate plan. She will fully explain all of your options, and walk you through the documentation process as efficiently and effectively as possible.
To discuss wills, trusts or other estate planning needs, contact Barbara L. Stagg, Attorney at Law, at 707-774-6640 or fill out the online form. Free 30-minute consultations are available, as are flexible appointment times and home visits.
