Securing your assets before you pass is not only important but allows you to pass knowing your assets were placed in the right hands. Dividing your assets can be stressful and deciding on your own who gets what can cause disagreements. Below, the experienced and professional estate planning attorney, Douglas Lauenstein, discusses five reasons why you should hire an estate planning attorney. 

Avoid The Probate Process 

Probate is the official legal procedure through which a will is recognized and the executor or personal representative is appointed to administer the estate and transfer assets to the specified beneficiaries. This process can take up to two years to close the estate. Usually, when Douglas Lauenstein helps you with the estate it can be closed in less than one year. In certain circumstances you can designate beneficiaries on some assets avoiding probate for that asset.

Attorneys Will Know What’s Best Pertaining To Your Circumstances 

The estate planning process consists of multiple legal documents that ensure your beneficiaries will know your wants and needs. These legal documents include: will, trust, power of attorney, a medical directive and guardianship nomination. With these documents, specific verbiage will be necessary. When you meet with an estate planning attorney, this will ensure that all documents are correct and properly executed. 

You’ll Save Time and Money

Estate planning assists in the organization of all of your documents and preferences. This will make it easier for your family to access important financial documents, titles, insurance policies and beneficiary designations after you pass away. Additionally, while you are still living, this planning approach can assist you in identifying and resolving errors. 

Your Estate Planning Documents Can Be Updated Whenever Necessary 

Throughout life circumstances can change. Divorce, children, marriage and many other aspects of life can affect your estate plan. Going through these changes, it’s important to update your estate plan to avoid potential issues amongst beneficiaries. With the help of an estate planning attorney, they can lift the stress of worrying about your estate plan when going through life transitions.

Estate Planning Attorneys Have an Unbiased Opinion 

Estate planning may be a difficult process to go through. Furthermore, owing to family relationships, determining the appropriate approach might be difficult. Estate planning attorneys provide a second set of eyes and ears to assist you with these big decisions. They will be able to provide you with a straightforward and honest response.

Contact Douglas Lauenstein Today For Your Estate Planning Needs

We’ll work with you to create a complete estate plan that’s tailored to your specific circumstances. Douglas C. Lauenstein, an estate planning attorney in Baltimore County with decades of expertise, is here to guide you and your loved ones through this process. Contact us today to learn more about our services and the estate planning process.