How to Start an Estate Plan

Step 1: Getting Started

As the axiom says, begin with the end in mind. The first step is to get a snapshot of what’s at stake, who the people are that can or should be involved, the assets, and an understanding of how it all comes together. We regularly explain the legal concepts at our community seminars so that we can focus on you at our initial consult (fee waived for seminar attendees). Before that consult, we ask that you fill out a comprehensive questionnaire so that we can be most efficient. At that consult, we can review the concepts and begin to make our recommendations based on your specific needs.

Step 2: Putting it in Place

Once we’ve worked together to establish priorities and the purpose for your plan, we’ll work on preparing the right legal documents to review with you and help you execute. We typically keep copies of what we’ve done for you so that we can be a resource to you and your loved ones down the road. You’ll take home your documents as well as some organizational tools.

Step 3: Making it Work

Most often, there are steps to be taken in addition to just signing your legal documents. Beneficiaries might need to be changed or updated, deeds might need to be recorded with the county, or we may need to consult with your loved ones and advisors to make sure that everyone is on the same page. We’ve counted on that and typically include those conversations in our fees.

As time passes, you’ll want to stay in touch to ensure that your plan reflects your evolving priorities and stays current with best practices of the day. We’ll give you an idea of how often you should pay attention to the specifics of your plan, but if it’s been more than a few years since you’ve had your plan looked at, please contact us for a consult.