Estate planning is not just for the incredibly wealthy or the very old. Everyone should have a comprehensive estate plan. Life is unpredictable, so it’s never too early to put plans in place that will protect loved ones after you pass. And as long as you’re of sound mind, it’s never too late, either. Here, a knowledgeable estate lawyer from MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C. in Middletown, NY, shares a couple of reasons to turn to their team for help, regardless of your current circumstances. 

Your Wishes May Differ From the Laws of Intestate Succession

It is wise to call an estate lawyer as soon as you start acquiring assets. A seasoned attorney will help devise a plan for distributing property upon death. If you die without having made a will, on the other hand, the state will step in and apply the laws of intestate succession. These statutes assume everyone has a traditional family dynamic and a close relationship with their immediate family members, which is not always the case. If you want your belongings to go to anyone other than immediate relatives, you must have a plan in place. 

Take Control of End-of-Life Care

You might assume every aspect of an estate plan goes into effect after death, but several arrangements benefit you while you’re still alive. A living will is an essential component of any comprehensive estate plan, for example. This document details the drafter’s wishes regarding end-of-life care in various circumstances. Other arrangements that benefit the creator before passing include business succession plans and trusts, which lessen tax burdens for both the originator and any beneficiaries. 

If you need to create or update critical end-of-life documents, turn to an estate lawyer at MacVean, Lewis, Sherwin & McDermott, P.C. This general practice firm has been representing clients throughout Hudson Valley for more than 130 years. In addition to estate planning, they also resolve legal issues and disputes pertaining to corporate law, personal injury accidents, family law, criminal defense, and elder law. To explore all the legal services they provide, visit their website, and call (845) 343-3000 to schedule your free initial consultation today.