A Will is a written document that provides instructions for the disposition of a decedent's (dead person's) property. The term "Last Will and Testament" is simply a more complicated name for a Will.

A Will is used to transfer property you hold in your name to the person(s) and/or organization(s) you want to have it. A Will also typically names someone you select to be your Personal Representative (or "Executor") to carry out your instructions and names a Guardian if you have minor children. A Will only becomes effective upon your death, and after it is admitted to probate.

Trusts can be very difficult and complicated. Trusts come in a variety of forms and can be established in many different situations. Some common forms of Trusts include:

• "Living" Trust - A Trust created during the lifetime of a grantor which can be altered, changed, modified or revoked. Typically the grantor is the initial Trustee as well as the initial beneficiary of the Trust, with his/her spouse and children as the ultimate beneficiaries of the Trust.

• “Testamentary Trust” - A Trust that is included under the terms and conditions established in a Will. Such Trusts take effect after the death of the person making the Will.

Understand medical and financial powers of attorney and why you need to prepare both.

What if an accident or illness -- or simply the effects of aging -- left you unable to tell your doctors what kind of medical treatment you want, or made it impossible to manage your financial affairs? No one likes to consider such grim possibilities, but the truth is that almost every family will eventually face this kind of difficulty. While medical and financial powers of attorney can’t prevent accidents or keep you young, they can certainly make life easier for you and your family if times get tough.

A power of attorney is a legal document that gives someone you choose the power to act in your place. In case you ever become mentally incapacitated, you’ll need what are known as “durable” powers of attorney for medical care and finances. A durable power of attorney simply means that the document stays in effect if you become incapacitated and unable to handle matters on your own.

With a valid power of attorney, the trusted person you name will be legally permitted to take care of important matters for you -- for example, paying your bills, managing your investments, or directing your medical care -- if you are unable to do so yourself.

Don't cut corners get legal advise. A Living Will is the popular name for a document spelling out the general kinds of medical care you would want--or not want--in the event you became unable to communicate with your health care providers. It does NOT impact who gets your property or who is your Personal Representative or Guardian of your minor children.

When your adult life is just beginning it is hard to think about death, but death is a reality. At some time all of us have to deal with death, and it is an important topic to discuss with your family. When a relative becomes terminally ill and death is imminent, a family can become emotionally frustrated if they do not know the death wishes of the dying family member.

If your visit to a doctor will include a surgical or medical procedure, it is always wise to have a Living Will on hand. Does the relative want to be kept alive artificially by a machine or die a natural death? Our lawyers and law staff can assist you with the preparation of a Living Will.