As family attorneys in Columbus, GA, Phillips & Sellers often see individuals and families who have not taken the time to properly plan for their future. This can lead to a variety of legal and financial issues down the road. Putting your will and assets in order is one of the most critical aspects of helping your family be prepared for what lies ahead. This can involve a variety of tasks, including writing a will, creating a trust, and establishing a power of attorney. While you can do these things on your own, it is often a good idea to seek the assistance of a family attorney.
Even if you already have a will in place, it’s important to understand the role a family lawyer can play in helping you put your assets in order.
What Family Attorneys in Columbus, GA Do
A family lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in family law. This area of the law covers a wide range of issues, including divorce, child custody, and inheritance. Family lawyers have the training and experience needed to help you navigate the complexities of these issues and to ensure that your rights and interests are protected. When it comes to financial planning and preparing for the future, having an expert in your corner can be a huge relief. Family lawyers specialize in knowing those inscrutable details, helping you be prepared in the face of a complicated legal system that isn’t necessarily designed to help protect families after a loss.
Family lawyers can help you understand the legal process involved in creating a will. This includes understanding what types of assets are included in your estate, and how they will be distributed. A family lawyer can also help you understand the legal requirements for creating a will, such as who must be present when the will is signed and how many witnesses are needed.
Additionally, family law attorneys can help you determine who should be named as your executor. The executor is responsible for carrying out the instructions outlined in your will, and it’s important to choose someone who is responsible and trustworthy. Your family lawyer can help you consider your options and make an informed decision.
Why a Family Lawyer is Essential
Do you know what all your assets are, how much they’re worth, and how to protect them from being eaten away by taxes or bad actors? It is important to have a clear understanding of your assets so that you can make informed decisions about how you want them to be distributed. Phillips and Sellers family attorneys can help you review your assets, including your property, bank accounts, stocks, and other investments. They can also help you identify any potential issues that may arise, such as disputes over property ownership, and can provide guidance on how to address these issues.
Once you understand what assets you have, a family lawyer can help you determine how to best protect your assets in other ways beyond creating a will and naming an executor. These may include creating a trust, which allows you to transfer assets to beneficiaries while avoiding probate court. A trust can also provide added protection for beneficiaries, such as minors, who may not be capable of managing their own assets. A trust is a legal arrangement that allows you to transfer your assets to a trustee, who will then manage the assets and distribute them according to your wishes. Trusts can be useful for a variety of purposes besides avoiding probate, including protecting assets from creditors and reducing taxes. A family lawyer can help you determine whether a trust is appropriate for your situation and can help you create a trust that meets your needs and goals.
Additionally, a family lawyer can help you navigate the often-complex tax laws surrounding estate planning. An estate plan is a comprehensive plan that outlines how you want your assets to be distributed after you die. It includes your will, trust, and power of attorney, as well as any other documents or agreements you may need to ensure that your wishes are carried out. Estate taxes can have a significant impact on the value of your estate, and a family lawyer can help you understand how to minimize this impact through careful planning. A family lawyer can help you create an estate plan that meets your needs and goals and provides you with peace of mind knowing that your future is secure.
Choosing a Family Lawyer
A family lawyer can provide valuable guidance and support during a difficult time. The loss of a loved one is never easy, and navigating the legal and financial aspects of settling an estate can be overwhelming. Family law attorneys can provide support and guidance throughout the process, ensuring that everything is handled smoothly and efficiently. That’s why hiring a family law attorney in Columbus, GA is important to ensure your loved ones are cared for after you’re gone.
If you are looking for a family lawyer in Columbus, GA, you will have a number of options to choose from. Some of the factors you may want to consider when selecting a family law professional include their experience, reputation, and fees. You may also want to find out about their availability and whether they are able to work with you to create a customized plan that fits your unique needs and circumstances. It’s important you make sure to hire someone with a good rapport with the local legal community, who also has the expertise to navigate the unique complexities of estate law in your region, but isn’t too busy to care personally for you and your family.
It’s never too early to have a plan in place. Whether you are just starting to consider estate planning or have already created a will, family law professionals can help you understand the legal process, determine who should be named as your executor, protect your assets, navigate tax laws, and provide support during a difficult time. Don’t leave your future to chance.
Take the time to work with Phillips and Sellers family law attorneys and ensure that your assets are properly taken care of. Contact the office today for more information and a consultation.
