A will is a written document that allows an individual to direct the affairs of his or her estate after his or her death.  In the will a person can designate a beneficiary or multiple beneficiaries, name a personal representative to manage the estate, name a guardian for minor children, and create a trust to protect assets of any minor children.  If you are over the age of 18 you should have a will as well as other estate planning documents. 

Some people prefer a living trust instead of or in conjunction with a will as an estate planning document.  A living trust is an entity created to hold assets for the beneficiaries named in the trust.  It is managed by a trustee, who is often the individual who created the trust.  When the beneficiary of the living trust passes away, the assets of the trust are distributed according to the plan laid out in the trust documents.

A living will is a legal document that an individual uses to declare his or her wishes regarding life prolonging medical treatment.  A proper estate plan will include a living will along with a power of attorney for health care.

The passing of a loved one is often a stressful and emotional time.  You do not need any additional stress regarding how to manage the estate of your departed loved one.  The attorneys at McDonald Law Office are here to assist you through the legal process.  We have helped hundreds of clients over the years with estate planning and probate administration.