Other Estate Law Topics

Though not a comprehensive list, when planning for the future, you may need to consider options other than a will. Such plans could include:

• Trusts - A trust is where property is managed by someone on behalf of someone else. The person who owns the property (settlor or grantor) sets up the management of property with a person or group of people (trustee) on behalf of a spouse, child, or someone else (beneficiary).
  
  There are several kinds of trusts covering all aspects of property and life situations. Determining what kind of trust is right for you requires professional legal advice.
  
  
• Power of Attorney - is when you assign someone else the power and right to act on your behalf in a legal sense. This can include writing checks and dealing with financial matters, but also makes decisions in your name. Powers of attorney can be limited to a single event or be long-term.
  
  
• Living Wills - a living will is a legal document which specifies how you wish to be treated in the event of a terminal illness or catastrophic injury. This usually deals with if a person wishes to be on life-support or have heroic efforts made on their behalf to save a life. It can also deal with topics such as organ donation.
  

There are other issues when preparing for the future. Consulting with an attorney is only prudent when dealing with such emotional and serious matters. Your attorney can help you make sure your wishes are met and your family taken care of if something should happen to you.