As an experienced Georgia estate attorney, it is my duty to be up front about the driving force behind this article, which is your death. While nobody likes to think about their own passing, there is nothing more definite than the fact that this will occur. Some people are have heard the old saying that there are two things sure in life: “Death and Taxes” – After many years of practicing law, I have heard about many people who have altogether avoided taxes and been an integral part of assisting many clients in legally minimizing and/or diminishing significant taxes they would have paid without proper estate planning or having consulted our Firm.
Having said this, to date, I have yet to see anyone steer clear of death.
The fact of the matter is, it will happen to you, it’s just a matter of when and how. So, in knowing this, it is essential that you prepare for this inevitable moment; and, the sooner the better. Let’s discuss why.
First, there are many common misperceptions which surround estate planning. The fact is, whether your “rich”, “poor” or somewhere in the middle of these commonly referred to social terms for wealth, we all have some level of need for estate planning and the sooner you engage in estate planning, the more benefits you stand to gain. These range from potential tax benefits you are entitled to and may not be aware of to the peace of mind that your affairs are in order should you become incapacitated, disabled or your inevitable death should occur. Please also be aware that your estate planning is an ongoing process and once your estate plan is in place, it can be altered to keep up with your circumstances, should they change. The Libby Law Firm, LLC, with its client’s permission, memorializes all its client’s estate plans in an easily updateable, editable digital, electronic and physical form.
Continue reading →