Wills & Trusts
Maui Hawaii Wills and Trusts Lawyer
In estate planning, when circumstances in life change, it is imperative to foster a solid lawyer-client relationship that endures for years to come. I try to build trusting, friendly relationships with my estate planning clients. Through these relationships, I provide attentive legal help that truly considers your best interest through wills, trusts and other estate planning devices.
I can help you understand your estate planning options
My estate planning practice is designed to protect you, your family and your assets through all of life's stages and changes. Whether you are newly married, a new parent, embarking on a business venture, planning for retirement or want peace of mind should you ever have a medical emergency, I can help you. I can advise you on your options and establish an estate plan that includes directives such as the following:
Your will is usual called a Last Will and Testament. It is always the last will that you sign that will be enforced. In your will, you put into writing your wishes for how your property and assets are to be distributed upon your death. A will can be challenged in a courtroom. It is wise to seek help from an experienced attorney who can appropriately draft your will and minimize any potential conflict among your family members.
There are many types of trusts, and they all fall into one of two categories- revocable trusts and irrevocable trusts. Trusts consist of a trustor, trustee, trust property and a beneficiary or beneficiaries. If you establish a trust, you are called the trustor. The person who manages the trust is the trustee, and the person who receives the money is the beneficiary. A trust distributes money to the beneficiary. Types of beneficiaries vary from grandchildren to charitable organizations.
When you name someone as your power of attorney, you are asking the person to handle your affairs in the event you are unable to do so. There are medical powers of attorney and financial powers of attorney. Different person can be chosen for each type. A medical power of attorney handles health care decisions on your behalf. A financial power of attorney handles your financial affairs. This can include everything from balancing your checkbook and handling your bank accounts to paying your bills and making investment choices.
A health care directive establishes your wishes regarding end-of-life decisions and health care preferences. The written instructions are for physicians, family members and friends to follow in the event you are incapacitated or too ill to voice your wishes.