wolterman conference room

Category: Estate Planning

Home » Blog » Estate Planning

  • How Can I Create an Effective Healthcare Directive?

    How Can I Create an Effective Healthcare Directive?

    An advance healthcare directive allows you to make critical decisions about your medical treatment and end-of-life care if you become incapacitated and cannot speak for yourself. The most common types of healthcare directives are a living will and a durable power of attorney for healthcare. These documents only take effect when you are unable to…

  • Understanding the Role of an Executor in Probate in Montgomery, Ohio

    Understanding the Role of an Executor in Probate in Montgomery, Ohio

    Being named the executor of a loved one’s estate is a significant responsibility. As executor, you oversee the probate process—the legal procedure that ensures the proper distribution of assets and the settlement of the deceased’s final affairs. Your duties may vary depending on the size and complexity of the estate, and an experienced estate lawyer…

  • What Is a Healthcare Directive?

    What Is a Healthcare Directive?

    There may come a time when you are no longer able to make or communicate decisions about your own medical care. In such cases, a healthcare directive ensures that your medical providers and family understand your wishes and can act accordingly. Creating a healthcare directive in advance allows you to take control of your medical…

  • Are There Tax Implications in Estate Planning?

    Are There Tax Implications in Estate Planning?

    Estate planning is a crucial process that ensures assets are distributed according to an individual’s wishes while also minimizing financial burdens on beneficiaries. One of the most important yet often overlooked aspects of estate planning is the impact of taxes. Without careful planning, estate and inheritance taxes can significantly reduce the amount heirs ultimately receive.…

  • What Is Power of Attorney, and Why Do I Need One?

    What Is Power of Attorney, and Why Do I Need One?

    The estate planning process involves several critical steps, including creating a last will and testament, establishing a living trust, designating guardianships, and preparing advanced healthcare directives. One important document that should be part of your plan is a power of attorney (POA)—a legal tool that authorizes a trusted individual to make decisions on your behalf.…

  • How Often Should I Update My Estate Plan?

    How Often Should I Update My Estate Plan?

    When it comes to estate planning, there is a common misconception that once you have drafted a will or trust, named a power of attorney, designated a guardian for your children, and signed the necessary documents; you do not need to revisit your estate plan again. However, this is not the case. Even the most…

  • What Happens if I Die Without an Estate Plan?

    What Happens if I Die Without an Estate Plan?

    Estate planning is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure that your property and assets are distributed according to your wishes. It also allows you to name a guardian for your minor children and specify the type of medical care you do or do not wish to receive if you become…

  • Reviewing Your Estate Plan in the New Year

    Reviewing Your Estate Plan in the New Year

    As we welcome 2025, it’s a great time to reflect on the past and make plans for a secure future. Life changes quickly, and if you’ve experienced significant events recently—such as a marriage, divorce, the birth of a child or grandchild, the loss of a loved one, or changes to your financial situation—it’s essential to…

  • Can I Create My Own Estate Plan?

    Can I Create My Own Estate Plan?

    Estate planning is a way to manage your assets and determine how they will be distributed after your passing. Many people wonder if they can create their own estate plan without legal assistance. While possible, there are important considerations and potential risks to understand before proceeding.   What Is Included in an Estate Plan? An…

  • Why Is Estate Planning Important?

    Why Is Estate Planning Important?

    Estate planning is an extremely important process that allows you to make important decisions about how you would like your property and assets distributed after you die. However, despite the many benefits of having a well-thought-out and comprehensive estate plan in place, people are often intimidated by the process or avoid the topic because they…