Estate Planning

ESTATE PLANNING & ELDER LAW ATTORNEY IN ATHENS, TX

Simple planning can eliminate unnecessary stress, confusion, expense, and uncertainty for your family and loved ones. A valid will allows a person to provide an orderly and simple transfer of assets, including real property, mineral interests, vehicles, and personal property. Additionally, to avoid costly Guardianship proceedings, several documents should be considered to best express your wishes without court intervention. We are happy to lend our expertise and help you plan your estate with the following legal matters:

LAST WILL & TESTAMENT

Many people attempt to write a will without a lawyer. However, just because you download a form from the internet or purchase one from the local office supply store does not make your will valid. Many families in Athens, TX discover too late that a loved one’s will was not valid according to Texas law requirements. The best way to ensure your family is taken care of and your wishes are followed is to speak with an experienced Estate Planning Attorney.

GENERAL DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY

A General Durable Power of Attorney is a document that names an agent who can handle your financial affairs when you are no longer able to. The benefit is that if you have this document, no one has to go to court or consult a judge to appoint a person for this task. This document makes the process very easy if a situation ever arises where it is needed.  There are various rights that can be granted.  Consulting an attorney can ensure what tasks and rights you should consider.

MEDICAL POWER OF ATTORNEY

The purpose of a Medical Power of Attorney is to designate a person to make your healthcare decisions if the time comes when you are unable to do so. Filing this document is the best way to ensure someone you trust is making the best medical decisions on your behalf.

MEDICAL DIRECTIVES

A Medical Directive is intended to express your desires for your medical care in the event you develop an irreversible or terminal condition. For instance, you may wish to discontinue certain treatments.

LADYBIRD DEED

A Ladybird Deed is a type of deed that gives a beneficiary an immediate ownership interest in your house. However, if structured correctly, the property is under your control for the remainder of your life. You can continue to live in it, make changes, even sell it.  As your Estate Planning Attorney in Athens, TX, John Youngblood can advise you about how the process works and if this is the best decision in your case.

REVOCABLE TRUSTS

A Revocable Trust can be used to generally avoid probate entirely.  Great care should be given to protect the property and cover various situations upon death or incapacity.  While not needed for many people, the Trust can provide a good alternative.