Many people avoid proper estate planning because they do not like thinking about death. Estate Planning is generally considered the process by which people develop a plan that ensures that the assets they have worked so hard accumulating during their lifetime are protected and distributed to those they love and/or to the charities of their choice. Without proper estate planning, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), depending on the size of the estate, may receive a disproportionate share of a decedent's assets by payment of taxes which, proper planning, may have avoided.
The probate process can represent a difficult and confusing maze to navigate especially at a time, shortly after the death of a loved one, when grief and stress may make dealing with legal requirements a challenge. Mike is experienced and knowledgeable in North Carolina probate practice and can assist in guiding personal representatives, heirs and beneficiaries successfully through the process.
In both estate planning and probate, we can help. Areas of expertise include: Wills, Trusts, Probate, Power of Attorney, Healthcare Power of Attorney, Guardianships, Living Trusts, Living Wills.
For additional information check the North Carolina Bar Association
http://www.ncbar.org/public/publications/pamphlets/protectingYourAssets05.pdf