Estate planning is a way to give final gifts to your loved ones, obtain some peace of mind for yourself, and establish the legacy you ultimately leave the world. Whether you are a young person just starting out or a retiree making plans for the next chapter of your life, this document is essential to ensuring your wishes are carried out. Below, the estate law attorneys at Shelton Law Firm in Chariton, IA, discuss planning, what it involves, and how it can help you and your loved ones.

An Estate Plan Covers All End-of-Life Issues

At the heart of any estate plan is a will which outlines how you want your property and assets divided after you have passed away. There are a variety of other legal documents you could include with your will, and each offers unique advantages; a living trust, for example, is a way to transfer ownership of property to your beneficiaries without the cost and interference of probate courts.

But estate planning doesn't just encompass what happens to your assets after you're gone, it also ensures you are cared for in the event of a life-limiting medical situation. Living wills and health care directives, for instance, allow you to state your wishes for end-of-life care, such as whether you want to be given CPR or put on artificial breathing equipment should the need arise.

The Benefits of Estate Planning

In an estate plan, you are making decisions easier for your loved ones by expressing your preferences. You can take comfort in knowing your wishes have been stated and must be legally enforced if or when the need arises.

Another distinct benefit of estate planning is giving to charities or social causes in your plans; with a will, your favorite organizations can receive a portion of your estate. In other words, you can continue making a difference even after you're gone.

To start the planning process, call the estate law attorneys at Shelton Law Firm at (641) 774-5956 or contact them online. Serving the Chariton and the surrounding areas since 1967, their team has the extensive experience you need to get the quality counsel you deserve. They’ll guide you through every step of the process, ensuring all your requests are documented in a way that’s legally binding.