Apple Payne Law, PLLC

When exploring the cost of estate planning, it is important to understand that it can be challenging to put a price on your peace of mind and the peace of mind of your family members. However, creating an estate plan can range from $800 to $3,000 and it all depends on the complexity of your estate and affairs, how many documents need to be prepared, how many times you need to meet with your estate planning attorney, how many witnesses must be present when you sign the documents, and the cost of the notary.

A living will, which is also referred to as an advance directive, is a legal document that outlines the medical treatments you would and would not want to endure should you require care at any point during your life. A living will is a written document that must be followed by anyone in charge of your care, including a power of attorney, a doctor, nurse, or emergency medical professionals. This document can also outline the medications that can be administered to you for pain management or if you will or will not donate your organs after death.

An estate plan attorney is an attorney who specializes in state and federal laws that impact how your estate will be handled upon your death. This includes how the estate will be inventoried, valued, taxed and dispersed after you have died. Putting a plan in place when you are still of sound mind makes it easier on your family members when the time comes to handle these matters. Should you die without a will, your estate will be forced to go through probate, which can last up to one year and drag your family through the mud. Probate is also a public matter of record in the court.

If you have made the decision to adopt a child, you likely want to know what it entails and how to start the adoption process. North Carolina is similar to many other states when it comes to adopting a child. You will need to choose an adoption agency, complete an application with the agency, complete a preplacement assessment, work with a social worker, hold visits with the child, bring the child home, endure a supervisory period, and then legalize the adoption in court. You should be guided through every step of the process by an experienced family law attorney.

An estate planning attorney near me in Kernersville, NC, has the experience and skills necessary to guide you through all aspects of the estate planning process. Whether you are making your first will, updating an older will, creating a trust, adopting a child, transferring beneficiaries of retirement accounts, filing for divorce, or any other issue; we can ensure that your case is met with compassion and skill at all times. When you are in need of assistance planning or altering your estate, you can put your trust in Apple Payne Law.