Lincoln County Estate Planning Lawyer

Lincoln County Estate Planning Attorney

In this life, the only constant thing appears to be change, which can unfold in very unexpected ways. This is why it often pays to be as prepared as possible, starting out by developing an estate plan. Taking this task on by yourself, however, can feel incredibly overwhelming. Fortunately, with the help of a Lincoln County estate planning lawyer, you can develop strategies and systems that can leave you, your loved ones, and your estate prepared for just about anything.

What Is Estate Planning?

It is common for terms like “estate administration”, “probate”, and “estate planning” to get mixed up and thrown about interchangeably, but they are actually quite different from one another. It is important, then, that you understand how each term relates to your estate. Before you hire a Lincoln County estate planning lawyer to help you, here is a quick breakdown of what each term means so you can avoid future confusion:

Estate Administration

Estate administration is often necessary after the owner of the estate has passed away, therefore requiring their assets and property to be managed on their behalf. Estate administrative duties may have some overlap with those involved in probate, but there is also the added responsibility of sorting out all of the estate’s administrative needs, such as settling debts.

Probate

The probate process, like estate administration, begins after the owner of the estate has died. Probate can include a wide variety of duties, including legally managing and distributing the assets and property that make up the deceased’s estate. This is generally done in accordance with the deceased’s will, but if there is not one, then it will be dealt with in accordance with North Carolina state law.

It is estimated that only 32% of adults in the United States have taken the necessary time to draft and finalize their will. While this may not seem like a big deal, especially to those on the younger side of life, the lack of a will can lead to confusion and added stress for your loved ones should you pass unexpectedly without one. It is always better to take the time and develop your will, regardless of your age.

Estate Planning

While the previous two terms have centered around proceedings that begin once the owner of an estate has passed away, estate planning is something that should be completed prior to this occurrence. Estate planning allows the owner of the estate to develop strategies and systems for the care of their assets, property, and even themselves.

Estate planning can prove incredibly helpful for your loved ones, especially when the time for probate and the like arises. According to one study, approximately 35% of adults in the United States have experienced or know someone who has experienced a familial dispute directly related to a lack of estate planning. When you have a clear plan in place, you may be able to help your loved ones avoid unnecessary fighting and stress.

Why Should I Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer in Lincoln County, North Carolina?

When you hire an estate planning lawyer, you can set your future up for success, protecting your loved ones, your estate, and yourself from future confusion, stress, and discord. Most estate planning cases do not require the outside influence of the North Carolina court system, but if your case requires that additional assistance, the Lincoln County Courthouse, specifically the Clerk of Superior Court’s office, is most likely where you will sort through the remainder of your estate planning process.

Why Should I Choose The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., to Handle My Estate Planning Case?

When you enlist the help of The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., you can have access to the tools and knowledge of a larger firm while receiving the personalized service of a small one. We believe in helping you create an estate plan you can feel confident about, allowing you to move forward into the unknown without having to constantly stress about what the future may hold.

Come and see for yourself why so many of our clients walk away with usable strategies and a general peace of mind.

FAQs About Lincoln County, CA Estate Planning Law

How Much Does It Cost to Hire an Estate Planning Lawyer in North Carolina?

In the state of North Carolina, estate planning cases tend to vary due to unique variables, and the cost of hiring an estate planning lawyer tends to mirror this fact. Some of the most influential factors often include the amount of time your case needs to finalize your estate plan, the level of complexity your case presents, and who you hire to guide you through the plan-making process.

Is Hiring an Estate Planning Lawyer Worthwhile in North Carolina?

Many individuals in North Carolina have found that hiring an estate planning lawyer can help decrease the level of confusion and stress they may have otherwise experienced while they tried to develop an estate plan. This very vital process can prove incredibly difficult, especially without the guidance of an individual who understands the complex terminology and legal requirements. At The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., we believe in helping you obtain clarity and strategy while developing a worthwhile estate plan uniquely suited to your needs.

Can My Estate Still Undergo the Probate Process If I Do Not Have a Will in North Carolina?

Yes, it is still possible for an estate to go through the probate process without a will, but it can be incredibly difficult, adding stress for your loved ones and the likelihood that your final wishes may be carried out incorrectly. While it may seem macabre, preparing your estate for your eventual passing is actually one of the most loving things you can do for your family, and it also gives you a chance to state how you would like your estate and assets to be handled.

How Long Will My Estate Planning Case Take in North Carolina?

Each estate planning case is unique, and the amount of time your case may need to resolve tends to mirror this fact. There are a wide variety of variables that may impact your overall timeline, including the availability of your local courthouse, the schedules of anyone else involved, and the level of complexity your case presents. Bigger estates often require more time, but by hiring an estate planning lawyer, you can avoid unwanted setbacks and mistakes.

Get Help Today

Contact The Schweppe Law Firm, P.A., today to set up a consultation.