Learn How Wills And Trusts Can Work For You
People often put off estate planning because they don’t know the specifics of the documents that make up an estate plan. Don’t let this stop you. At Kellington & Oster, PC, we can explain these estate planning tools and how they work.
Wills and trusts attorney Theresa Kellington has more than 33 years of experience. People come to her for her extensive knowledge of North Dakota estate planning. You can count on her to ensure your estate plan includes the right documents for your goals, assets and beneficiaries. Contact our firm for an appointment with our lawyer today by calling 701-969-7860.
What Are The Differences Between Wills And Trusts?
A will is a probate document that serves many purposes: distribution of assets, appointment of executors and guardians for minor children, and funeral/burial instructions. It becomes effective after the testator’s death, and it is a public document because probate becomes a public record.
A trust does not go through probate, so it is a private document that allows the distribution of assets held in the trust to happen quickly. Trusts can save money by avoiding probate, depending on the size and nature of the estate, but they are usually more expensive to set up than a will. Trusts can serve many purposes such as providing for a child with special needs, charitable giving, passing on assets without probate and providing assets for the grantor during their life.
We Can Represent You In Will Contests
Is there a dispute between heirs and beneficiaries over a loved one’s will? This is not an easy situation, and it can cause permanent rifts between family members. Fortunately, our wills and trusts attorney can help.
Some of the most common reasons people challenge wills are:
- Undue influence on the testator
- Lack of capacity
- Sudden addition of caregivers or others to the will
- Mismanagement of the estate’s assets
- Improper execution of the will
Whether you are the party contesting the will or defending it, we can advocate for your position.
Let’s Talk Today About Your Will And Trust Needs
As with all aspects of estate planning, it is better to get started rather than wait. We are here to help, so contact our Bismarck wills and trusts attorney at 701-969-7860 or through email. We offer discounted rates for repeat clients.