Estate Planning

Estate Planning

I tell my clients who are contemplating creating an estate plan that this is not a license to die. Instead, it is taking control of the things you have worked hard for all your life and making sure that the needs of your loved ones will be provided for after you have died. I often refer to estate planning as “preventative lawyeri­ng” because we are taking steps to avoid future problems, such as probate, unexpected illnesses or accidental deaths. Even young adults should have a valid will to prepare for the unexpected. We offer competitive rates on all of our estate planning services, so now is the best time to plan for the future. Just knowing that you have your estate in order will provide a tremendous source of relief.

--Tobin R. Dunn, Attorney
At Dunn Law Firm, LLC, we believe you should have the right to leave your property to who you want when you want and the way you want.

You have worked hard all of your life to take care of your family and build a private estate you can be proud of. It only makes sense to put in a little effort into making sure that after you die, your property goes to the people or place you intended it to go to and not to unintended heirs.

It doesn’t matter how large or how small your estate. Careful estate planning is important for anyone who has property (house, cars, investments, insurances, personal property) that he or she wishes to distribute to a family member or loved one. Having a valid will or trust established at the time of your death is the only way to protect your loved ones from letting the state decide how your assets should be distributed among your surviving family members. If you do not have a validly executed will at the time of your passing, estate intestacy laws will determine who gets your property.
Living Will Declaration — Springfield, MO — Dunn Law Firm LLC

Wills

Writing a will early is better than the emotional trouble your family can go through after your passing. A will has to be probated one year of a deceased family member for it to be effective. It can help distribute the estate and appoint legal guardians of minor children. Make sure you and your loved ones are prepared for the unexpected. 
Old Couple Signing Papers — Springfield, MO — Dunn Law Firm LLC

Trusts

A revocable living trust can avoid probate if you become disabled and helps to protect the privacy of the trust owner. It also helps to prevent the need for any probate administration as long as it is properly funded. It can be amended or revoked prior to a loved one’s passing. 
Attorney Holding Papers To Be Signed — Springfield, MO — Dunn Law Firm LLC

Powers of Attorney

If you become mentally or physically unable to make financial decisions due to any reason, a power of attorney will allow a person you trust to make the decisions for you. When children turn 18, a parent no longer has power of attorney. If your child cannot mentally take care of themselves as they get older, a power of attorney will allow you to be still able to make decisions for your child. 

For further information about Dunn Law Firm LLC in Springfield, Missouri, or to schedule a consultation today, call (417) 851-5888.

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