Will-Based Estate Plan

   A simple will is a set of written instructions to the probate court about what should happen after your death. It allows you to:

• Nominate guardians for minor children.
• Appoint a personal representative to manage the probate process and handle final affairs.
• Outline how assets remaining in your name at death should be distributed.
• If a minor inherits, the court may establish a conservatorship to manage those funds until adulthood.

Because wills must go through probate, a will-based estate plan does not avoid probate for assets held in your name at death.  

If you think a will-based estate plan might be right for you, start with the Estate Planning intake form. I will review your information and then call you to discuss whether a will-based or trust-based plan fits your situation and what the flat fee would be.

• Printable PDF (best for planning): If you’re still deciding who to name as your substitute decision makers, download the PDF first and use it to brainstorm and take notes. When you’re ready and your choices are clear, you can then complete and submit the online form.
• Online Web Form (preferred): If you already know who you want to act as your substitute decision makers, go straight to the web form. It usually takes about 15–30 minutes to complete.

After I receive your completed form, I’ll review it, call you to discuss your goals, and, if everything is a good fit, send you an engagement agreement.