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There are many out there that believe they can handle estate planning on their own. While in some states it may be possible with just a notary to notarize your handwritten will, often you will still want to consult an estate planning attorney. They do much more than just draft up wills.

It is better to think of an estate planning attorney as someone who can make sure your wishes are carried out legally. At a glance, estate planning seems straightforward, but it can have a lot of intricacies that, if not followed, will invalidate your estate plan.

The true benefit of getting an estate planning lawyer is that you figure out what you want to make happen after you pass away, and they find ways to make sure that is carried out so you don’t have to worry about it. Planning for your death is already complicated enough.

A full list of what an estate planning lawyer can do includes:

• Drafting a legal will
• Crafting a legally sound Power of Attorney
• Plan to reduce estate tax
• Establish a living trust
• Plans to avoid or assign guardianship if you become incapacitated
• Work to protect your property from creditors
• Assure that your estate is passed out in the manner you wish

However, often a visit to an estate planning attorney isn’t just a one-time affair.  Often, they will provide continued service to your estate, making it so you can change it at any time. If you are beginning the estate planning process and need the help that only a knowledgeable estate planning attorney can provide, contact us today. Ford + Bergner LLP can help you with continued support to your estate plan so your wishes are carried out and your family is taken care of after you pass. Going it alone may be preferable for some, but all law is complicated and it requires certain steps to be taken.