Iowa Estate, Wills, and Trusts Lawyers
Whether you were appointed to administer the probate of an estate for a recently deceased loved one, are concerned about an elderly loved one, or you need to create your own estate plan, the Des Moines, Iowa estate, wills & trusts lawyers at the Handley Law Firm can help.
Estate Planning
Statistics tell us that less than half of all Americans have a comprehensive estate plan in place. Without one, the disposition of your estate assets will be determined by the Iowa laws of intestate succession, meaning that friends, distant relatives, and charities that are important to you will likely receive nothing. It may also mean that gift and estate taxes significantly diminish the value of your estate, leaving less for your loved ones. We understand that contemplating your own death or incapacity is not something anyone wants to do; however, we also know that you want to protect both your estate and your loved ones. A comprehensive estate plan can do both.
Incapacity Planning
Incapacity can strike at any time as a result of a tragic motor vehicle collision, a workplace accident, or a terminal illness. If you become incapacitated who will make decisions on your behalf? Who will control your estate assets? Unless you have an incapacity plan the answers to questions such as these are less than clear. In a worst case scenario your loved ones could end up in a lengthy and costly legal battle for the right to make decisions for you or control your assets. To ensure that your wishes are honored you need an incapacity plan in place. We understand that contemplating your own death or incapacity is not something anyone wants to do; however, we also know that you want to protect both your estate and your loved ones. A comprehensive estate plan can do both.
Probate Assistance
When an individual dies, his or her estate is typically required to pass through the legal process known as probate. For the executor or personal representative appointed to oversee the probate of an estate the process can be cumbersome and complicated. For this reason, most executors/personal representatives choose to retain the services of an experienced estate, wills, and trusts attorney to advise and assist throughout the probate of the estate. The Des Moines, Iowa estate, wills & trusts lawyers art the Handley Law Firm can assist you during this difficult time.