What is your process?

At our firm, we have a comprehensive process for working with clients to draft their estate plan.

First, we schedule an initial consultation to discuss the client's goals, concerns, and assets. During this meeting, we will explain the various planning strategies that may be appropriate for the client's unique circumstances.

Next, we will gather all necessary information from the client, including financial statements, trust documents, and other relevant materials. This allows us to thoroughly analyze the client's assets and create a personalized estate plan that meets their needs.

Once we have drafted the estate plan, we will review it with the client to ensure that they fully understand its contents and are comfortable with all of the provisions. We encourage questions and feedback from our clients during this review process.

After the plan has been reviewed and approved, we will coordinate with the client's financial advisors and other trusted professionals to ensure that the plan is properly implemented. This may involve transferring assets into trusts, updating beneficiary designations, and other tasks.

Finally, we provide ongoing support and review of the estate plan to ensure that it continues to meet the client's needs as their circumstances change over time.

Overall, our process is designed to be comprehensive, collaborative, and tailored to the individual needs of each client. We strive to provide a personalized experience that ensures our clients' peace of mind and protects their legacy.

How much time do you typically spend with a family in designing and fine-tuning the estate plan?

We understand that every family is unique and requires a personalized approach to their estate planning. Our process involves several meetings, phone calls, and emails to ensure we fully understand your goals and wishes for your estate plan. The amount of time we spend with each family varies based on their specific needs and complexity of their estate. However, we can assure you that we are committed to providing the necessary time and attention to ensure your estate plan is tailored to meet your goals and expectations.

How are your fees determined?

We offer three different packages for our estate planning services: Silver, Gold, and Concierge. Our Silver package includes basic documents that outline your wishes for after you pass away. Our Gold package includes distribution planning and additional strategies to help minimize tax implications. Our Concierge package involves a more in-depth consultation process where we discuss your specific needs and the potential consequences of your choices. Our fees are based on the package you choose and the complexity of your estate plan.

What assistance do you provide in asset titling after the documents are written?

We understand that titling assets can be a confusing process, so we are happy to assist our clients with this aspect of their planning if requested. Our team is knowledgeable in the proper titling of assets and can provide guidance on the most effective ways to title assets based on the individual client's goals and circumstances. Whether you want to handle the titling of assets on your own or would like our help, we are here to support you throughout the planning process.

What is your process for notifying your clients of changes in laws that affect the plan?

At our firm, we make it a priority to stay up-to-date with changes in laws and regulations that may affect our clients' estate plans. We have systems in place to monitor changes in the law and keep our clients informed.

When a significant change in the law occurs, we will send out a notification to all clients who may be affected. We will also provide guidance on any necessary updates or changes to the estate plan. In addition, we encourage our clients to reach out to us with any questions or concerns they may have about changes in the law that may impact their plan.

We believe that keeping our clients informed and educated about changes in the law is an essential part of providing excellent service and ensuring that their estate plan remains up-to-date and effective.

How does your firm work with the next generation in providing education on the workings of our plan?

At our firm, we believe that it is essential to involve the next generation in the estate planning process. We understand that family dynamics and communication are crucial in ensuring that the transfer of wealth and assets is successful.

During the estate planning process, we encourage our clients to involve their children or other heirs in the discussion. We also offer educational resources and opportunities for the next generation to learn about the estate planning process and their roles in carrying out the plan.

We also work with financial advisors and other trusted advisors to ensure that the next generation has access to the information and resources they need to manage their inheritance properly. We believe that education and open communication are key to the long-term success of an estate plan, and we strive to provide our clients and their families with the tools they need to achieve their goals.

If you have any questions or concerns about involving the next generation in your estate planning, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are always here to help and provide guidance throughout the process.

How often do you advise clients to come back for a review of the estate plan?

it is advisable to review and update your estate plan every three to five years or after significant life events such as a marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or death of a loved one. Other factors that may warrant a review include changes in tax laws or financial circumstances, relocation to a different state, or changes in your wishes regarding the distribution of your assets. It is important to work with a qualified estate planning attorney or financial advisor who can provide guidance on when and how to review your estate plan to ensure it remains up-to-date and aligned with your goals and objectives.

Describe your process for working with other trusted advisors like financial planners and CPAs?

At Art of Planning Law, we believe in a collaborative approach to estate planning. We work closely with other trusted advisors like financial planners and CPAs to ensure that our clients receive comprehensive and customized solutions that align with their unique needs and goals. Our process begins with a consultation to understand our clients' overall financial picture and the role of their other trusted advisors in managing their assets. We then work closely with these advisors to coordinate our efforts and ensure that our strategies are consistent with their recommendations. Throughout the planning process, we communicate regularly with our clients and their other advisors to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that our clients' interests are fully protected. Our goal is to provide our clients with peace of mind and a sense of confidence that their estate plan is tailored to their specific needs and aligned with their overall financial plan.

What is the estimated timetable for getting our plan completed - start to finish?

The estimated timetable for completing an estate plan varies depending on the complexity of the plan and the client's availability to provide the necessary information. Generally, the process can take anywhere from several weeks to a few months. The first step is to schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and objectives. From there, we will work together to gather all the necessary information, analyze your current financial situation, and recommend a customized plan. Once the plan is drafted, we will review it together, make any necessary revisions, and execute the final documents. Our team works efficiently and with a sense of urgency to ensure that the estate plan is completed in a timely manner while also ensuring the highest quality of work.

What hurdles or roadblocks should we anticipate?

When it comes to estate planning, there can be a few hurdles or roadblocks that clients may encounter. Some of the common ones include:

1. Family dynamics: Family relationships can be complicated, and disagreements or conflicts can arise when it comes to estate planning. It's important to have an open and honest conversation with all parties involved to ensure that everyone's wishes are taken into account.

2. Changing laws and regulations: Estate planning laws and regulations can change over time, which can impact your plan. It's important to work with an attorney who stays up-to-date on these changes and can help you make any necessary updates to your plan.

3. Complexity of assets: If you have complex assets, such as a business or investment properties, it may take additional time and effort to ensure that they are properly accounted for in your estate plan.

4. Health issues: If you or a loved one has health issues, it's important to plan accordingly. This may involve setting up a healthcare directive or power of attorney to ensure that your wishes are carried out if you become incapacitated.

5. Procrastination: One of the biggest roadblocks to estate planning is simply procrastination. It can be easy to put off planning for the future, but it's important to remember that having a solid estate plan in place can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

By working with an experienced estate planning attorney and addressing these potential roadblocks early on, you can help ensure that your plan is completed in a timely and effective manner.