Estate Planning: Things to
Consider Before You Start

Drafting a detailed estate plan can help prevent possible issues and disputes when settling your final affairs or distributing assets to inheritors after your death. Whether you have a small or large estate, creating an estate plan allows you to plan adequately for life's uncertainties, protect your assets, finances, and investments, help your family members save time and money, and eliminate some stress when you're gone. An experienced California estate planning attorney can enlighten you about some things to consider before you start creating your estate plan.

At Davidson Estate Law, we're dedicated to offering comprehensive legal guidance and strong advocacy to clients in estate planning-related matters, including wills, living trusts, probate, powers of attorney, and advanced directives. Our trusted attorneys are available to discuss your unique circumstances, enlighten you about the benefits of estate planning, and explain important things to consider before you start. Also, we will explore your available options and determine the ideal estate plan that best fits your unique needs.

Davidson Estate Law proudly serves clients across Oakland, California, as well as Walnut Creek, Berkeley, San Francisco, El Cerrito, Alameda, and throughout the Bay Area.

What Is Estate Planning?

Estate planning can be described as the process of making suitable plans in advance regarding how you want your assets and property to be handled, distributed, or disposed of when you die or after sudden incapacitation. The estate planning documents consist of various legal documents that provide specific instructions about how to settle a decedent's final affairs or transfer estate assets to heirs and beneficiaries.

What Should I Consider
Before I Draft an Estate Plan?

Before drafting an estate plan, here are some important things that you need to consider:

• Identify the goals you intend to accomplish with your estate plan.

• Make a detailed list of all your assets and property.

• Identify your debts and determine how you want to pay them back.

• Consider who you would want to inherit certain assets.

• Decide how you want your assets and property to be divided.

• Consider who you would want to appoint to handle your financial and legal affairs.

• Consider who you would want to make healthcare decisions on your behalf.

• Consider your preference for the disposition of your remains and/or your funeral.

• Consider whether you have loved ones you need to plan for (i.e., minor children, family with special needs, and pets).

• Consider whether you would like to donate to a charitable cause or organization.

• Consider whether you would like to create a business succession plan.

Estate planning remains a crucial step towards creating a secure financial future for you and your loved ones. An experienced attorney can enlighten you about your possible options and help you make intelligent decisions.

Getting the Experienced
Legal Support You Need

Planning for future uncertainties can never be too early. In the event that you become unavailable, incapacitated, severely ill, or otherwise unable to voice your opinion, your family members can benefit and achieve peace of mind from knowing your true wishes. Therefore, when thinking about drafting your estate plan, speak with an experienced estate planning attorney for detailed guidance.

For over 25 years, our firm has been providing knowledgeable legal services and helping individuals and families navigate the complexities of estate planning. We can help you understand the important things to consider before drafting your estate plan and determine the right estate plan that best suits you and your family's needs. Using our in-depth legal understanding, our trusted attorneys will guide you through every phase of the entire process and work intelligently to address your needs and concerns.

Getting experienced legal support and guidance is crucial when creating your estate plan. Contact us at Davidson Estate Law today to schedule a simple consultation with skilled estate planning attorneys. Our trusted team can outline a strategic solution to protect your estate and help you achieve your goals for transferring assets to beneficiaries. We're proud to serve clients across Oakland, California, as well as Walnut Creek, Berkeley, San Francisco, El Cerrito, Alameda, and throughout the Bay Area.