Estate Planning
Protecting Your Wishes and Legacy
Protecting Your Legacy and Your Loved Ones
Minnesota Estate Planning Attorneys
At Johnson/Turner, we know estate planning can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Our experienced estate planning attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your wishes are honored and your loved ones are cared for. Whether you’re preparing a simple Will or creating a comprehensive Trust-Based Plan, we provide tailored solutions to meet your unique needs.
We start by understanding your goals, addressing your concerns, and helping you create a plan that reflects your values. With our fixed-pricing model, you’ll have peace of mind knowing exactly what to expect—no hidden fees, no surprises.
Things to think about
Why Estate Planning Matters
Estate planning is about more than just dividing assets. It’s about ensuring your family’s future is secure and avoiding unnecessary legal complications. A well-crafted estate plan protects your assets, minimizes conflict, and provides clear guidance for how decisions will be made in the event of your incapacity or passing.
Key Elements of an Estate Plan
The Will
A Will allows you to determine who inherits your assets, appoint guardians for minor children, and designate an executor to carry out your wishes. Without a Will, state laws will decide these matters, which may not align with your preferences.
The Trust
Trusts provide more control over how and when assets are distributed, help avoid probate, and can minimize taxes. Whether you choose a Revocable or Irrevocable Trust, this tool can protect your legacy and ensure your beneficiaries receive their inheritance efficiently.
The Health Care Directive
A Health Care Directive outlines your medical care preferences and designates a health care agent to make decisions on your behalf if you’re incapacitated.
Power of Attorney
This document allows someone you trust to manage your finances and legal matters if you are unable to do so.
Transfer on Death Deed (TODD)
A TODD allows you to pass real estate directly to a beneficiary without going through probate, simplifying the transfer process for your loved ones.
Who Should Consider Estate Planning?
Ideally, everyone can benefit from having an Estate Plan to ensure their wishes are carried out. However, it’s especially important for those in the following situations or categories:
- Families with Minor Children: Ensure guardians are named, and their financial future is secure.
- Blended Families: Address unique dynamics to minimize conflict.
- Business Owners: Protect your business and plan for succession.
- Individuals Concerned About Privacy: Avoid probate to keep estate matters private.
Our Approach to Estate Planning
At Johnson/Turner, we focus on making estate planning accessible and stress-free. We ask every client questions about trust, conflict, legacy, worries, guardianship, and life vision to craft a plan that reflects their priorities.
Ready to protect your family and preserve your legacy? Contact Johnson/Turner today to schedule a consultation with one of our estate planning attorneys.
Cornerstones of Your Estate Plan
Trusts and Wills
When it comes to protecting your assets and ensuring your loved ones are cared for, trusts and wills are two of the most essential tools in your estate planning arsenal. While both serve to outline your wishes, they address different aspects of your legacy and can work together to provide comprehensive solutions.
Trusts
Trusts go beyond the capabilities of a will, offering greater control and flexibility. A trust allows you to manage and distribute assets during your lifetime or after your passing while avoiding probate. Trusts can help you protect loved ones who may need help managing their inheritance, plan for incapacity, or minimize taxes.
- Managing assets during your lifetime and beyond.
- Ensuring minor or dependent beneficiaries are cared for.
- Avoiding probate and protecting your family’s privacy.
Learn more about our Trust-Based Solution:
Trust-Based Solution
Wills
A will is a foundational document that outlines how your assets will be distributed, names guardians for minor children, and appoints a personal representative to ensure your wishes are carried out. It’s the cornerstone of any estate plan, giving you control over critical decisions instead of leaving them up to state laws.
- Ensure assets are distributed according to your wishes.
- Minimize disputes among beneficiaries.
- Appoint a guardian for minor children.
Learn more about our Will-Based Solution:
Will-Based Solution
Understand Estate Plans
FAQs
Why is estate planning important?
Estate planning ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes, reduces tax burdens, and provides guidance for your family during challenging times.
What is the difference between a will and a trust?
A will outlines your wishes for asset distribution after death, while a trust offers more control and can manage assets during your lifetime. Trusts also bypass probate, making them a more private option.
Do I need both a will and a trust?
Many people benefit from having both. A will covers items not included in a trust, such as appointing guardians, while a trust can manage significant assets and avoid probate.
When should I update my estate plan?
Review your plan after major life events like marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or significant financial changes.
How can I get started?
Contact Johnson/Turner to schedule a consultation. Our transparent pricing and team-based approach ensure you feel confident in every decision.
Ready to Get Started?
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