Estate Planning Attorney in Washington D.C. & Massachusetts
Health Care Proxy & Living Wills
Every individual aged 18 and older should have appropriate health care directives in place to ensure that, in the event of an accident, while under anesthesia, or when incapacitated and unable to communicate, only trusted individuals can access their protected medical information and make decisions regarding their medical care. Relying solely on a generic form provided at a doctor's office or hospital is insufficient. In emergencies, having direct communication with the attorney who crafted these legal documents is crucial for swift enforcement.
Last Will and Testament
A will is the cornerstone of any competent estate plan. It enables you to clearly document your wishes and legally uphold them after your passing. Most believe a will simply distributes assets, however, it also safeguards your loved ones’ future, providing peace of mind in trying times. At the Fodera Law Firm, your estate will have the personal attention of Ross J. Fodera, Esq. ensuring that your unique needs are clearly reflected.
A properly constructed will precisely details the distribution of your assets, minimizing the likelihood of conflicts among family members and preventing the complexities associated with intestacy, in which the state determines how your estate is allocated. Beyond your assets, a will also allows you to name guardians for minor children, ensuring their care remains in trusted hands.
Components of a Will
A proper will has several elements which are needed to be legally recognized, hence the need to contact a competent and reliable legal representative. These elements include:
Appointment of an Executor - the person who will manage your estate and ensure your will is carried out as intended. This role is essential as the executor will handle everything from paying debts and taxes to distributing assets as directed.
Distribution of Assets - how your assets will be distributed among the named beneficiaries.
Guardianship of Minor Children - this will ensure that any minor children in your care are swiftly protected after your passing, avoiding court-appointed guardianship.
Specific Bequests and Charitable Donations - a well-drafted will will also include specific devises such as family heirlooms, and make charitable donations, protecting the causes you care about.
At the Fodera Law Firm, we understand that every person’s estate and their relationships are unique, so we ensure that our approach is tailored to your needs. Ross J. Fodera, Esq. will work with you closely to meet your needs, whether providing for your family, protecting business interests, or supporting philanthropic goals.
Trusts & Asset Protection
Trusts are a powerful and versatile tool that allow you to manage and protect your access in unique ways during your lifetime. A trust can help avoid costly probate expenses, provide for dependents, offer significant tax and liability benefits, and ensure your property is used exactly how you want. There are various types of trusts, including revocable and irrevocable, each serving different purposes. The Fodera Law Firm and Ross J. Fodera, Esq. can help you choose the right trust to meet your needs and preserve your assets for your beneficiaries.
Probate Administration
Probate is the legal process by which a person's debts are paid and assets are distributed upon her or his death by the "estate." Probate laws direct the probate court on how to distribute the decedent's estate. The laws and procedures can be complicated, so it is important to consult a firm with experience in this area of the law to ensure that the deceased's assets are distributed correctly and the wishes of the decedent are complied with.
Let Us Know How We Can Help!
Don’t Wait to Protect Your Estate
Not everything in life happens according to plan. The Fodera Law Firm can help you plan for the unexpected and ensure that your family, assets, and priorities are adequately protected. Whether you have an old will that needs updating, have never thought of estate planning, or are interested in protecting your assets from creditors, contact the Fodera Law Firm today and protect yourself.
How Can the Fodera Law Firm Help?
The Fodera Law Firm has a proven track record of assisting clients with issues such as:
Drafting Wills
Creating Trusts
Durable Power of Attorney
Healthcare Decision-Making
Asset Protection
Charitable Giving
Probate
Contact an Attorney Today
The Fodera Law Firm is ready to use it's experience, knowledge, and resources to effectively handle your matter.
Contact us today to book a consultation. Fill out our contact form or give us a call at the number below.