Erie Estate Planning Lawyer Protecting Your Family’s Future
Estate planning is one of the most important steps we can take to protect our family’s future and make sure our wishes are carried out. While many people in Erie and throughout Pennsylvania delay this crucial planning, having proper legal documentation in place provides peace of mind and security for you and your loved ones. A skilled estate planning lawyer will help create a comprehensive plan tailored to your unique situation.
I am attorney Alan Natalie, and I have served Erie families with trusted estate planning guidance for over three decades. I understand the importance of protecting your legacy and your family’s financial security. If you need assistance with wills, trusts or other estate planning matters, contact me at Alan Natalie, Attorney At Law, by calling 814-616-3805 or sending an email.
Comprehensive Estate Planning Services
A well-crafted estate plan involves more than just a basic will. I help clients create complete estate plans that may include:
● Last will and testament: The foundation of your estate plan, determining how assets are distributed and naming guardians for minor children.
● Living trusts: Helping your estate avoid probate, maintaining privacy and providing flexibility in asset distribution while potentially reducing estate taxes.
● Power of attorney: Designating a trusted individual to handle your financial and legal matters if you become unable to do so.
● Health care directives: Including living wills and medical power of attorney to establish your health care wishes if you become incapacitated.
● Asset protection planning: Structuring your estate to protect assets from creditors and minimize tax implications for your beneficiaries.
● Beneficiary designations: Ensuring that your life insurance, retirement accounts and other assets pass directly to your intended beneficiaries.
Having the right estate planning documents in place can prevent family conflicts, reduce tax implications, and see that your assets are distributed according to your wishes. I work closely with each client to understand their unique circumstances and create customized solutions that protect their interests and their loved ones’ futures.
Frequently Asked Questions About Estate Planning
I can answer any questions you have about estate planning, including questions about wills, trusts, health care and asset protection, including:
What is the difference between a will and a trust in Pennsylvania?
A will allows a person to manage their assets after they pass away, directing the distribution of their assets to family members and loved ones. Furthermore, a will allows a person to name a guardian for a minor child and nominate an executor to handle the estate.
Much like a will, a trust allows a person to decide how funds are distributed. However, a trust can be used to protect funds from lawsuits, ownership disputes, estate taxes and misuse. Special kinds of trusts can control how assets are used, such as donating to a charity or limiting spending. Trusts and wills are often used jointly.
Do I really need a will if I don’t have many assets?
Yes. Even if you do not have many assets, you should consider making a will. Without one, the state will decide how your assets – including sentimental items – are distributed, and that takes away your autonomy and control. It may also force your loved ones to go through a lengthy probate process to settle your estate.
Does an estate plan avoid probate?
There are several situations that would allow an estate to bypass probate. For starters, smaller estates under $50,000 in value (with no real estate) may qualify for a simplified probate process. Alternatively, the strategic use of trusts and beneficiary designations can allow most estates to bypass probate in full.
What is an irrevocable trust?
An irrevocable trust allows a person to transfer assets to a trust for the benefit of a beneficiary. However, an irrevocable trust typically cannot be altered or revoked once it is created. This can protect assets from collectors and legal judgments, making it a superior choice for many who want to pass on generational wealth.
Start Planning Today With Alan Natalie, Attorney At Law
Estate planning is not just for the wealthy – it’s essential for anyone who wants to protect their family and assets. I make the process straightforward and affordable while putting all necessary protections in place. To learn more about how I can help secure your family’s future, call my office at 814-616-3805 or email me through this website to schedule your consultation.