Who Needs an Estate Plan?
If you have people you love, things you own, or wishes you want honored, it's you!
Every Adult 18 and Older
The moment you turn 18, your parents lose the legal right to make medical or financial decisions for you. A healthcare directive and durable power of attorney ensure the right people can act on your behalf if you're ever unable to speak for yourself — no matter your age or health.
Couples — Married, Partnered, or Committed
Whether you're legally married or in a committed partnership, an estate plan protects your relationship. For LGBTQ+ couples especially, legal documents like wills, beneficiary designations, and powers of attorney are essential safeguards — because love alone doesn't create legal rights.
New or Growing Families
If you have children — biological, adopted, or through surrogacy — an estate plan lets you name a guardian, set up a trust for their care, and ensure they're protected if something happens to you. Without a plan, a court decides who raises your children.
LGBTQ+ Individuals
Legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals and families can vary by state and change over time. Estate planning creates enforceable legal rights that protect your chosen family — your partner, your friends, your community — regardless of what the law does or doesn't recognize.
Older Adults
As you age, planning for long-term care, Medicaid eligibility, and the transfer of assets becomes increasingly important. An estate plan helps you protect what you've built, reduce the burden on your family, and ensure your wishes are followed at end of life.
People with Disabilities or Special Needs
A special needs trust can provide for a loved one with a disability without disqualifying them from government benefits like Medicaid or SSI. Careful planning ensures they're cared for long after you're gone — on your terms.
Travelers
Before you go on any trips or make any big moves — before your bags are packed — make sure that your personal documents are up to date and valid... and that your estate plan is, too!
Creators
If you write, make art, record music, or hold intellectual property, your estate plan should address what happens to your creative work. Who controls your copyrights, publishes your unfinished manuscripts, or licenses your designs?
Collectors
Rare books, trading cards, art, jewelry, vintage items, sports memorabilia — collections often hold significant financial and sentimental value. An estate plan ensures your collection goes to the people or institutions you choose, and that its value is properly accounted for.
People with Pets
Your pets are family — but the law treats them as property. A special pet trust lets you set aside funds and name a trusted caregiver to ensure your animals are loved and cared for if you're no longer able to do so yourself.
Blended, Non-Traditional, & Chosen Families
Stepchildren, co-parents, polyamorous families, and other non-traditional structures often fall outside default inheritance laws. A thoughtful estate plan ensures the people you consider family are treated as family.
Anyone with Wishes to Honor
Even if you have few assets, you likely have certain expectations and wishes. An estate plan is how you make those wishes legally binding.
Not sure where to start?
Every family is different. Schedule a free consultation and we'll talk through what documents make sense for your life, your relationships, and your goals.
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