Wills & Estate Planning
Trusts
Living Wills
Health Care Proxies
Power of Attorney
There can be some confusion with the terms a last will, a living will, a living trust and a health care power of attorney. All four of these are very different but equally important.
A Last Will is sometimes called a last will and testament. It is used to distribute your property to your heirs that you specify in the will document. You can also name who you want to be the guardian of your minor children. It is a very important part of any estate plan. Without a last will and testament, the courts will make these vital decisions for you.
A Living Trust is used to transfer property to beneficiaries. Generally a living trust is not subject to probate court.
A Living Will lets you make critical healthcare decisions for yourself in advance. These decisions include whether you wish to be removed from life support or do not want to be resuscitated.
Health Care Power of Attorney allows you to appoint a person that you trust to make critical health care decisions for your benefit.