Wojtan, Vallone & Melin Attorneys at Law
Serving clients in Buffalo, Cheektowaga and throughout Western New York
Many people are unprepared to deal with the legal and financial consequences of a serious illness such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Legal and medical experts encourage people recently diagnosed with a serious illness — particularly one that is expected to cause declining mental and physical health — to examine and update their financial and health care arrangements as soon as possible.
There are four basic tools of estate planning: Durable Power of Attorney, Health Care Proxy and Living Wills, Will & Living Trust. It is imperative to have these documents executed by the care recipient, while they are legally competent.
Misinformation and misunderstanding about estate taxes and the length or complexity of probate provide the perfect cover for scam artists who have created an industry out of older people’s fears that their estates could be eaten up by costs or that the distribution of their assets could be delayed for years.
The purpose of estate planning is to ensure that you, and not others, such as the government or lawyers, choose who will inherit your wealth. Through proper estate planning, you can take care of those you love even after you die.
The transfer of non-titled property such as photographs and other family heirlooms often creates more challenges among family members than the transfer of titled property. Here’s how to deal with some of the issues that may arise.
Estate planning is not a one-time job. There are a number of changes that call for a review of your plan. You’ll probably need to update your will several times during the course of your life. Things change as time passes.
Everyone faces the possibility that sometime during their lifetime, they may become incapacitated. Many people assume their spouses or children will automatically be allowed to make financial and/or medical decisions for them, but this is not necessarily so.
We believe that representing your future is the most important work we do and we'll work tirelessly to resolve your problems through skillful negotiation, thoughtful planning, and superior knowledge of the law. Call us today at 681-3355 for your free consultation on any legal matter. [Read More …]
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