Estate planning always seems to take a back seat in our busy lives. We all know it is important, but years can pass without ever quite getting around to it. But for those who have experienced the loss of a close family member, know how important a good estate plan can be. Without an estate plan, you lose control of how your assets are distributed, leaving your family with a much more difficult & potentially disputable process.
At Huelat & Mack P.C., we have over 125 years of combined experience with individuals & couples to assess their needs and plan for the future. Our attorneys have experience drafting wills, trusts, powers of attorney, health care directives, and living wills in the state of Indiana. A relatively simple document such as a durable power of attorney not only makes it easier to help care for aging parents but can also save you the significant expense & difficulty associated with guardianship proceedings. At Huelat & Mack P.C. we can show you different methods to avoid the probate process altogether. By partnering with you, we can also help make things easier for your loved ones when you pass.
Comprehensive Estate Planning – Serving Northwest Indiana
At Huelat & Mack P.C. we take time to understand your goals & help you create a comprehensive estate plan that includes all the documents you need, which can include your will, all trust instruments, & powers of attorney to establish agents to handle your affairs if you ever become unable to take care of it yourself. Our attorneys have a thorough understanding of the laws and processes surrounding these estate planning tools. We will help you create an estate plan that works for you.
Probate & Estate Administration
When a loved one passes away, there are many details that must be resolved as you handle the emotions that come with such a loss. There are several steps involved in the probate process, including;
- Inventory: Once probate has begun in the appropriate county, the first thing to do is get a clear inventory on all assets and debts. Assets can include real property, automobiles, investments, retirement plans, personal property, etc.
- Pay Bills & Debts: Before the assets can be distributed among the beneficiaries, the bill holders, creditors & lenders obtain satisfaction from the estate. This can include outstanding tax obligations.
- Distribute Assets: After the debts and bills are handled, the next step is to distribute the assets to the appropriate beneficiaries. If there is a proper estate plan, the will, trusts and other documents the estate plan contains will determine the distribution of assets. Without this estate plan, assets are distributed according to state law.
- Close The Estate: Once all of the assets are properly accounted for and distributed, the next step is to simply close the estate.
The process can seem very long & daunting, each of these steps involves detailed procedures. At Huelat & Mack P.C., we have over 125 years of combined experience to help you & your family with each procedure and what the law requires. We can help you through the process. Call us today & schedule an appointment at our office in La Porte, Indiana.