NeoEra Legal | Wills | Estate Planning

the fundamentals

four essential documents of estate planning

Will

Names beneficiaries to your estate, guardian for your children, and executor to distribute your assets.

Health Care Directive

Names an agent to make health care decisions for you and gives them specific instructions.

Power of Attorney

Empowers an agent to take legal and financial actions on your behalf during your life. Can be limited or broad.

Testamentary Trust

Puts assets in a trust at your death instead of gifting them outright. Popular for people with young children.

Pricing

Reasonable, affordable, totally worth it

Basic

$500

Consultation

Custom Will

Health Care Directive (HCD)

Power of Attorney (POA)

Probate Instructions

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Advanced

$1500

Everything in Basic

Second Will for Spouse

Second HCD & POA

Testamentary Trusts

Asset Documentation

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more information

frequently asked questions

Why do I need a will?

A will ensures that your wishes are followed regarding the distribution of your assets, guardianship of minor children, and other matters after your death.

What happens if I die without a will (intestate)?

If you die without a will, state law will determine who inherits. Your spouse takes priority. If no spouse, then children. If no children, then grandchildren. If no grandchildren, then your parents, then your siblings, then your aunts and uncles, and so on through the family tree until no one is left. In that case, the state takes your property.

Can I change my will after it's been created?

Yes, you can update or amend your will through a codicil (an addition) or by creating a new will.

Who should I appoint as my executor in my will?

Choose someone you trust to manage your estate and carry out your wishes. This person is responsible for settling your affairs after your death.

What is probate?

Probate is the legal process through which a court validates a will and oversees the distribution of assets. It is public, lengthy, and expensive. Strategies to avoid probate may include using a living trust, joint ownership, and beneficiary designations.

Is it possible to avoid probate?

Yes, you can use strategies like creating a living trust, joint ownership, or beneficiary designations to bypass or minimize probate.

How long does probate take?

The duration of probate can vary but typically takes several months to a year or more, depending on the complexity of the estate and local laws.

Why might I want to create a testamentary trust in my will?

Testamentary trusts can be used to protect and manage assets for beneficiaries, such as minor children or individuals with special needs.

What is the difference between a testamentary trust and a living trust?

A testamentary trust is created within a will and only comes into effect after the testator's death, while a living trust is established during the grantor's lifetime and can be used for managing assets both before and after death.

What are the advantages of using a testamentary trust in a will?

Testamentary trusts can provide for the long-term financial security and specific needs of beneficiaries, protect assets, and offer tax benefits, especially when dealing with minor children, individuals with disabilities, or spendthrift beneficiaries.