Why should you use an attorney when you can download stuff from the internet?

-Because I know what the client needs. I will meet with you, ask you to come prepared with information about your property and investments, and will ask you questions about what you want done with your property after you die, or in the case of a married couple, after each spouse dies.

-As your personal attorney, I know why, when, and how to use the documents I recommend to you and the documents we will select for your unique needs. Every estate is different, every family has its own personalities, needs, and family make-up. The documents selected should be tailored for each individual and the family. Since I will have gone over your information, and discussed with you the property you own and what you want done after you die, or in the case of a married couple, after each spouse dies, I can recommend those documents that are BEST for you, and tailor the documents for your estate.

-I understand that the client Awants to avoid probate.@ As your personal attorney, I have te same goal. We will discuss the ways this can best be accomplished, and I will prepare those nonprobate transfer documents you need, and execute the documents so they are effective for your property. Remember, not every State has the same nonprobate transfer laws, and as your attorney we can help recognize where nonprobate transfer documents may not work for you, or if the documents need to be tailored for your own estate.

-As your personal attorney, I know how to get your estate planning documents executed properly.  Proper execution of your documents is essential for the documents to hold up to scrutiny.  After you die, it is too late to find out the documents are not properly executed. Relying on some internet form and to Asign the dotted line@ is fraught with risk you do not want to take, since you will not be around to correct the mistake. Further, proper execution and discussion about your Atestamentary capacity@ will help minimize the risk of a will contest.  With a steady rise in the rate of people suffering from dementia or Alzheimer=s disease, the ability to determine testamentary capacity is important to the estate planning process. A face to face discussion with your personal attorney can help determine testamentary capacity. 

-Finally, as your personal attorney, I also know what else is left to do.  The Woodlawn Law Offices will be with you every step of the way, and will make sure you understand the process as well as helping you complete the documents ancillary to your estate plan. If deeds need to be filed to transfer assets into your estate, we will make sure this is done. 

Contact David Schmidt at the Woodlawn Law Offices, 636.240.6667, to schedule an appointment today!