Wills, Contests & Trusts Litigation

Avoiding taxes, protecting assets and providing guidance as to their wishes are commonly what people think about in wills and trust planning matters. These are vital concerns that will provide you with peace of mind. Our knowledgeable lawyers are dedicated to providing comprehensive guidance, sound advice and thoughtful strategies in creating an estate plan that is best suited to your unique family and financial structure.

Each household has unique needs and goals. Our financially-savvy estate planning attorneys are prepared to help you tailor a plan to meet your individual interests. A comprehensive estate plan may involve a mixture of tools, including:

• Wills: Writing a will is the most commonly recognized aspect of estate planning. Our lawyers have helped individuals understand how a will fits in to a comprehensive estate plan. Wills only become effective after you pass away, and may not always accomplish all of your estate planning goals.
• Trusts: Not every estate plan needs to include a trust. The list of types of trusts is lengthy and includes irrevocable trusts and revocable living trusts. We diligently review each case individually and explain the pros and cons of each relevant legal instrument to allow our clients to make informed decisions.
• Health care proxies: Massachusetts law does not officially recognize “living wills.” However, appointing an agent through a properly drafted health care proxy can help ensure that medical decisions are made consistent with your wishes should you become incapacitated and unable to speak for yourself.
• Durable powers of attorney: These instruments allow you to appoint and authorize a representative to handle your financial affairs, such as paying the mortgage, during times of unexpected incapacity. A power of attorney can be vital in avoiding the expense of a guardianship or conservatorship proceeding in probate court.
• Prenuptial and post-nuptial agreements: Many people tend to overlook marital agreements in an estate plan as a creative solution to avoid potential disputes.
• Business succession planning concerns: Many businesses and professional entities have detailed succession plans. A comprehensive estate plan should take into account business interests to avoid conflict. High income earners and households with substantial assets often involve complex analysis of multiple instruments in crafting a comprehensive plan.

Get In Touch With An Experienced Wills And Estate Planning Attorney

For quality legal services to protect your assets and your family, contact Nigro, Pettepit & Lucas, LLP. Near Wakefield, call 781-245-4545, near Newburyport, call 978-462-9008, or send us a message using our online contact form.