Newton Estate Planning Lawyer

Newton Estate Planning Attorney

Estate planning is one of the most important ways to protect your future, family, and assets. The knowledgeable team at The Jonas Law Firm, PLLC, can help you navigate this planning process to help provide you with peace of mind. Our skilled Newton estate planning lawyers are here to walk you through creating your first will, setting up a trust, or preparing your directive for healthcare emergencies.

Why Estate Planning Matters

Estate planning is all about making your wishes clear. It helps your family avoid unnecessary conflict and court involvement while minimizing taxes and other expenses. A comprehensive estate plan addresses many areas, including:

• Guardianship of minor children
• Distribution of property and assets
• Healthcare decisions and end-of-life preferences
• Long-term care and medical planning
• Business succession planning
• Protection from probate and court intervention

If you don’t have a plan in place, the courts could handle your assets on your behalf. This often puts additional strain and costs on your loved ones during an already emotional time.

A 2024 study revealed that only 32% of adults had created a will, a figure down from previous years. Of this population, only 76% of people ages 65 and over have put a will in place. The main reason people report not creating a will is that they simply haven’t gotten around to it.

Estate Planning Options and Services

Estate planning trends in North Carolina continue to evolve as more individuals seek personalized solutions to secure their legacy and protect loved ones. Every estate and situation is unique, and everyone has their own goals and wishes for the future. At The Jonas Law Firm, PLLC, we take the time to get to know you and understand your situation and desires. We work to craft a plan that aligns with your values, priorities, and financial circumstances.

Some of the estate planning services we handle include:

• Wills. A will is the basic foundation of an estate plan. It can help you specify who inherits your property and names your intended guardians for any minor children. A will gives you the option to appoint an executor to carry out your wishes.
• Trusts. Trusts offer greater flexibility and can help to avoid probate while providing for loved ones over time, and protecting your hard-earned assets from falling into the hands of creditors. A trust can also let you create a plan for how your beneficiaries will receive their inheritance.
• Powers of attorney. A power of attorney is a legal document that grants someone else the authority to make decisions on your behalf. Our experienced attorneys can help you assign a durable financial power of attorney, as well as a healthcare power of attorney. In the event that you become incapacitated, this can ensure your affairs are still managed in accordance with your wishes.
• Advance directives/living wills. A living will outlines your preferences regarding medical treatment and life-sustaining measures. It guides your loved ones and healthcare providers when you are unable to express your wishes for yourself. A living will must be clear, legally enforceable, and integrated with your overall estate plan.
• Probate and estate administration. Even with planning, your estate may go through probate. The team at The Jonas Law Firm, PLLC, can help you file paperwork with the Catawba County Courthouse in Newton, notify heirs and creditors, inventory and value estate assets, and pay debts and taxes.

Who Needs Estate Planning?

Estate planning is not just for the elderly or wealthy. Everyone can benefit from having a plan for the future. It’s imperative to consider creating or updating your estate plan if:

• You own a home or have other assets
• You’re married or in a committed relationship
• You have children or other dependents
• You want to plan for illness or incapacitation
• You own a business

FAQs

How Much Does an Estate Lawyer Cost?

Estate lawyer fees vary based on their experience, location, and the complexity of your needs. These attorneys generally charge per hour but may offer a flat fee for standard services, such as drafting a will. More complex estate planning that involves tax strategies or business succession may cost more. You can discuss an attorney’s fee schedule during your initial consultation to get a better idea of what to expect to pay.

What Is the Difference Between an Estate Lawyer and an Estate Planner?

An estate lawyer is a licensed attorney who provides legal guidance on wills, trusts, powers of attorney, probate, and other estate matters. They can help you draft a legally binding document and represent clients in court. An estate planner may or may not be a lawyer. Their role typically involves helping clients organize assets, plan for taxes, and achieve long-term financial goals. Estate planners often work alongside attorneys, financial advisors, and accountants.

What Are the Steps in the Estate Planning Process?

A basic guide to wills and trusts can help you understand the steps involved in creating a solid estate plan. Step one involves determining how to distribute assets, assigning guardianship, and minimizing taxes. Step two is taking an inventory of all assets. Next is determining if you need a will, trust, power of attorney, or healthcare directive. Then, you can choose selected individuals to serve as executors, trustees, or agents. The next step involves drafting documents and transferring assets into any trusts or updating beneficiary designations. Lastly, you simply need to review your plan regularly.

What Is the Difference Between a Will and Estate Planning?

A will is a legal document that outlines how your property should be distributed after your passing. It can name guardians for minor children as well. Estate planning is a broader process that includes a will but also involves other tools, such as trusts, healthcare directives, and powers of attorney. Estate planning can help you minimize taxes, avoid probate, and plan for long-term care or charitable giving.

Contact a Newton Estate Planning Lawyer Today

The Jonas Law Firm, PLLC, has been serving residents of Catawba and surrounding counties for decades and remains committed to helping clients plan for their future and take care of their loved ones. Whether you are planning ahead or navigating a difficult situation after a loss, you don’t have to navigate the legal aspects alone.

Contact our Newton estate planning lawyer to schedule a consultation today and give your family the gift of security and clarity for the future.