How many seniors in Charleston and the state as a whole are participating in estate planning?
A key reason to plan your older adult’s estate is that without a will and testament, many important decisions will be out of the family’s hands. Local courts and state laws will come into effect, and that is most likely not what your loved one wants. The IRS can provide more information about the number of people with simple or complex trusts in the state.
There have been far fewer simple and complex trusts filed in South Carolina than there are seniors. Finding a Charleston estate planning attorney can help your loved one avoid the challenges and legal complications that arise from an unplanned estate. In many cases, seniors don’t have an estate planning attorney in Huntington or Charleston simply because they have not gotten around to it. However, being proactive allows your older to know their wishes will be carried out.
How many people aged 55+ have the “essentials” when it comes to estate planning in Charleston?
There are three primary documents that are essential for those over 55. These include a will, a durable power of attorney, and an advance healthcare directive. These ensure that your loved one’s wishes are followed in the event of their death or incapacity. Unfortunately, very few seniors have all three of these documents prepared.
A Charleston-area estate planning attorney can work with your loved one to draw up these documents. The power of attorney designates who is able to make decisions for your senior if they are not physically or cognitively able, and the advance healthcare directive provides instructions about their wishes in the event that they need to be resuscitated. In the event of emergencies, these documents can eliminate a good deal of confusion and make your senior’s wishes clear.
How to choose the best estate planning attorney in Charleston
When you look for a Charleston estate planning attorney, it is important to understand your older adult’s needs. They might already have a lawyer for other aspects of their affairs and only need a Huntington or Charleston estate planning attorney for a few specific tasks or more extensive assistance. An essential part of looking for estate planning services in Charleston is asking for references. You can disregard anyone who is unwilling to present references. Trust is an important part of these processes, and your loved one deserves to feel confident in the support they get. It is also important to make sure that any prices for prospective candidates fit within your older adult’s budget.
For further details, read our comprehensive guide to choosing an estate planning attorney. This guide gives more information about the factors to consider and how to go about finding a skilled estate planning attorney.
Estate planning solutions for Charleston seniors
Working with an estate planning lawyer in Charleston or another area city can provide your older adult with the space to talk through important end-of-life and financial matters with the guidance of an expert. We understand how vital, but also challenging, these decisions can be, and that is why Seasons offers free listings and guides to assist you in your search process.