Getting The Will, Trust And Estate Plan That’s Right For You
At Downs Law Firm, I recognize that planning for the future is a crucial step in protecting yourself and the people you care about. Estate planning is not a one-size-fits-all process—every individual and family has unique needs and goals. Whether you are looking to create a will, establish a trust, or develop a comprehensive estate plan, I am here to help you make informed decisions.
Proper planning ensures that your wishes are honored, your assets are distributed according to your intentions, and your loved ones are cared for when you are no longer here. Together, we will assess your specific circumstances and craft a tailored estate plan that meets your needs and provides peace of mind.
Take control of your future today. Contact my office to begin creating an estate plan that protects what matters most to you.
Estate Plans And Issues I Regularly Handle
Your estate plan should reflect your unique circumstances and long-term goals. Whether you need a basic will combined with a power of attorney (POA) and a health care directive or a more complex plan, I am here to guide you. For those with significant assets, multiple properties, or a child with special needs, establishing a trust may offer additional protection and flexibility.
At Downs Law Firm, I work closely with clients to craft personalized legal documents that clearly outline their wishes. Together, we will discuss your priorities, ensuring that your instructions are properly documented and legally sound. A well-prepared estate plan not only protects your assets but also provides peace of mind by ensuring your family, close friends, and medical professionals understand your decisions.
I can assist you by creating a variety of documents to suit your estate planning needs including:
- Last Will and Testament
- Health Care Directives (Living Will/Medical Power of Attorney) that tell your loved ones the type of medical care and treatments you want
- Financial Powers of Attorney that delegate who has the power to take care of your finances
- Beneficiary Deed
- Revocable Living trusts/A-B trusts/testamentary trusts which can protect assets and help your estate not have to go through the probate process
- Special needs trusts for dependents who are unable to manage their own finances
- Charitable gifts/trusts to favorite organizations
- Pour Over Wills
- Beneficiary designations because your accounts will need this to avoid being probated
- Specific bequests that you want to ensure happen
- Disinheritance when there are major changes in your relationships
- Estate administration and probate
Take the first step toward securing your future—contact my office today to discuss your estate planning options.
Reasons To Create An Estate Plan
Creating an estate plan offers numerous benefits that provide clarity, protection, and peace of mind. Some of the key reasons to establish a comprehensive estate plan include:
Guardianship: In your will, you can appoint a guardian to care for your children if something happens to you and the other parent. You can also outline your preferences and values to guide their upbringing.
Naming Beneficiaries: An estate plan allows you to clearly specify who will receive your assets. Whether through a will or a revocable living trust, you can ensure your wishes are honored while maintaining flexibility to update your plan as circumstances change.
Avoiding Probate: A properly structured revocable living trust can bypass the probate process, while a well-drafted will simplifies probate for your loved ones.
Asset Protection & Tax Reduction: Thoughtful planning, including strategic gifting, can help protect your assets and minimize tax burdens.
A Plan in Place—Decision-Making Authority: By designating a power of attorney (POA), you ensure someone you trust manages your financial affairs if you become incapacitated. A health care directive or living will allows you to outline your medical preferences, and naming a health care proxy provides someone the legal authority to make health decisions on your behalf.
Peace of Mind: Documenting your wishes now alleviates the burden on your loved ones, ensuring they are not left guessing about your intentions during difficult times.
Planning today means you can face the future with confidence. Let me help you create an estate plan that protects your loved ones and secures your legacy.
Get The Plan You Need And The Future You Deserve
At Downs Law Firm, I am dedicated to providing every client with the personal attention and tailored legal guidance they deserve. Whether you’re ready to create an estate plan or need advice on other legal matters, I am here to listen and help you take the next steps.
Reach out today to schedule a consultation and discuss your specific needs. You can call me at 618.655.9906 or send an email through the convenient contact form on this website—I will respond promptly to arrange a time to connect.
My office is located in Edwardsville, and I proudly serve clients throughout the East St. Louis metro area. With licenses to practice in both Missouri and Illinois, I am equipped to assist clients on both sides of the river. Let’s work together to create a legal plan that protects your interests and secures your future.