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Yes -- estate planning is not just for the wealthy. A basic plan ensures your assets go to the people you choose, names someone you trust to manage your affairs if you become incapacitated, and appoints a guardian for your minor children. Without these documents, state law and the courts make those decisions for you. The cost of a solid plan is modest; the cost of not having one can be significant.

A will is a legal document that directs who receives your assets after you pass and goes through probate -- the court-supervised process of settling an estate. A revocable living trust holds assets during your lifetime and transfers them to beneficiaries without probate, providing privacy, potentially faster distribution, and easier management if you become incapacitated. Many clients use both: a trust to hold major assets and a 'pour-over' will to capture anything not already in the trust. We will help you determine which structure makes sense for your situation.

We recommend reviewing your plan every three to five years, or after any significant life change -- marriage, divorce, the birth of a child or grandchild, the death of a named beneficiary or executor, a major change in assets, or a move to a different state. Tax laws also change, and a periodic review ensures your documents remain current and effective.

If you die without a will (called dying 'intestate'), Virginia's intestacy laws determine who inherits your estate. This may not reflect your actual wishes. For example, if you are unmarried, assets typically pass to parents or siblings rather than a long-term partner. If you have minor children, the court appoints a guardian. The process is also more time-consuming and public than administration under a well-drafted will.

A durable power of attorney authorizes someone you trust to manage your financial affairs if you become unable to do so -- due to illness, injury, or incapacity. Without one, your family may need to go to court to establish a guardianship or conservatorship before they can act on your behalf, which is costly, time-consuming, and stressful. A healthcare power of attorney similarly designates someone to make medical decisions for you. Both documents are essential parts of any complete estate plan.

Yes. We regularly assist clients with connections across Virginia, Maryland, and Washington DC, and we can coordinate with attorneys in other states when needed. If you own real property in multiple states, we will discuss strategies -- such as holding property in a trust -- that can simplify administration and help avoid multiple probate proceedings.