WILLS, TRUSTS, & ESTATES
Ready to pen the ultimate love letter to your loved ones?
Look no further!
At Summit Legal Services, Charlotte is not just about legal jargon and fine print – she's also focused on helping you craft a heartfelt message that will stand the test of time. Picture this: you, a cup of tea in hand, and Charlotte, weaving your wishes into a masterpiece that would make Shakespeare jealous (okay, maybe not that jealous). From ensuring your prized possessions go to the right hands to leaving behind a legacy that's as unique as you are, Charlotte's got your back. So, let's turn those thoughts into words, and those words into a legacy that'll make your grandkids smile. Because at the end of the day, it's not just about what you leave behind – it's about the love you leave woven into every word.
Let's make some magic happen!
How It Works
Step into the wonderful world of Estate Planning with Charlotte! Here's how she transforms your wishes into reality and ensures your family is protected:
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15 Minute Clarity Call: Let's make sure Summit is the right fit for you on a 15-minute call where we can get some clarity on your hopes and dreams. We'll discuss everything from who gets your vintage record collection to who inherits your secret chocolate stash.
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Life & Legacy Planning Session (2 hours): This is where you will spend the first hour with Charlotte learning about Estate Planning and determine whether you want to work together. If you do want to work with Charlotte, the second hour is focused on planning how you want your Estate Plan to look. After this session, Charlotte gets to work crafting your Plan.
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Final Draft: Armed with your feedback, Charlotte works her magic to fine-tune the draft into its final form. It's like adding the finishing touches to a work of art!
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Your Final Say: Take a look at the shiny final draft and make any last tweaks or comments. It's your Estate Plan, after all – she wants you to be comfortable with and understand it!
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Sealing the Deal: If you're ready to make it official, she'll guide you through making it all official. But don't worry, there's no pressure – she's here whenever you're ready to take that next step.
And just like that, your legacy is secured, your loved ones are cared for, and you can rest easy knowing your wishes will be carried out.
What is What?
Will
Think of a will as your personal treasure map. It’s the way you tell everyone what you want done with your stuff when you’re no longer around to enjoy it yourself.
Whether it’s your beloved comic book collection, your cool vintage car, or even your quirky garden gnome collection, a will helps you make sure your treasures go exactly where you want them to.
You can also use it to name a guardian for your kids or pets, so you know they'll be looked after the way you'd want. And, if you have any special wishes, you can lay those out too.
So, it’s like you’re still calling the shots from beyond—making sure everything is sorted and everyone knows your final wishes.
Trust
Imagine a trust as your personal vault where you stash away your assets—like cash, property, or cherished keepsakes—and then set the rules for how they’re managed and distributed. Here’s how it works:
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You (the Trustor): You create the trust and decide what goes into it. This could be anything from your prized collection to your home or investments.
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The Trust Document: This is the blueprint or “rulebook” that outlines exactly how you want your assets handled. It’s like crafting a detailed game plan.
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The Trustee: This is the person or organization you appoint to manage the trust according to your instructions. They’re responsible for making sure everything runs smoothly and your wishes are carried out. This can be you when you are alive.
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The Beneficiaries: These are the individuals or entities who will benefit from the trust’s assets. They receive what you’ve allocated for them, either during your lifetime or after you’ve passed away. You can be the beneficiary while you are alive.
A trust offers you control and flexibility, helping to ensure your assets are used and distributed as you wish. Plus, it can streamline the process, often bypassing the lengthy probate system and keeping things more private.
Advance Directive
An advanced directive is a document that expresses your wishes about medical treatments and interventions if you're unable to communicate them later on.
It acts as a gentle shield for your loved ones, sparing them from the heavy burden of making tough decisions during challenging times. It serves as a comforting roadmap, guiding your family through the maze of uncertainty by clearly outlining your wishes for medical care.
By expressing your preferences in advance (hence the name "advance directive"), you gift your family the invaluable peace of mind that comes from knowing they're fulfilling your desires, rather than grappling with difficult choices amidst emotional distress.
It's like offering them a soft, reassuring hand to hold as they navigate the intricate terrain of healthcare decisions on your behalf if or when you are unable to.
Healthcare Power of Attorney
A healthcare power of attorney is like appointing a trusted ally to stand by your side in the realm of medical decisions.
It's a legal document that grants someone you choose the authority to make healthcare choices on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself.
This designated individual, often a family member or close friend, steps into your shoes to ensure your medical wishes are honored and advocates for your best interests when you're unable to speak for yourself.
It's like having a steadfast guardian to navigate the complexities of healthcare with care and compassion, ensuring your voice echoes loudly even when you're unable to speak.