Equinox Estate Planning

While every proper estate plan includes a will of some type, a “simple will” may have shortcomings. For example, a Last Will and Testament is unable to protect you during a period when you are unable to make decisions or become impaired (incapacity) because they do not go into affect until you die. Most Americans will face a period of incapacity and will need someone else to make vital decisions on their behalf. Another shortcoming of a “simple will”, among many other limitations, is that a will does NOT avoid the court-involved processes of conservatorship, probate, or guardianship – which can potentially be a timely and costly process. There is evidence that wills are challenged more as well. For these and many reasons, we generally suggest a revocable living trust for most of our clients. However, there are times when a revocable living trust may be a very poor strategy. Even if you decide on a will as the core document of your plan, we will always include other documents, such as powers of attorney, a HIPAA authorization, and a Living Will/Advanced Directive, as part of a comprehensive estate plan.

Here are 4 “C” words to summarize why we believe we you should consider hiring us.

Competency

Equinox Estate Planning practices entirely in estate planning and directly related areas such as business planning, tax planning, and real estate planning.  Our team invests significant time staying abreast of the latest planning techniques, court rulings, and changes in the law. Matt and Mark are members of WealthCounsel, an industry-leading community of over 3,500 attorneys and other professionals who support and guide each other towards excellence. WealthCounsel provides extensive continual professional learning opportunities, including seminars, hundreds of video courses, and informative articles. 

Compassion

We treat our clients interactions as an opportunity to build a meaningful relationship, not just another transaction. As much as you probably do, we despise a rigid, stale, or manipulative atmosphere. Expect better! Expect to be treated with friendliness, professionalism, and respect. 

Communication.

We will make clear what each step of the process looks from the start. We will keep you informed each step of the way and respond to your questions in a timely manner. We aim for our conversation to be defined by empathy, honesty, and clarity.

Collaboration.

First, we encourage collaboration amongst families and loved ones who will be included in your planning in order to make your wishes crystal clear. Additionally, we work alongside and welcome feedback and input from other professionals. Whether it’s your financial advisor, CPA, insurance agent, or another professional, we enjoy and welcome collaborating with others.

Cost will depend upon your unique situation. We do not approach estate planning as a one size fits all. Are you a blended family? Do you need sophisticated tax planning? Do you have extensive real estate investments that you’d like to protect from lawsuits? Then the fee may be higher end. If you are unmarried, have no children, and have modest wealth, although there are likely nuances you aren’t aware of, then the fee will be much lower. We value fair and honest pricing and will provide you an estimate before you invest in our services. We work on a flat fee basis, so that you will never feel like you are rushed or that you cannot call or email your attorney. Additionally, flexible payment plans are available. 

Lastly, it’s always important to consider the cost of NOT having an estate plan. Probate and a conservatorship may be expensive. Lawyers charge large hourly fees to help clean up messes. Families can be torn apart fighting over an estate. When we help a client, it’s because we firmly believe that we will be saving you or your family notable amounts of money in the long run and providing value that is greater than our fee.

Most plans are prepared, signed, and ready to implement in roughly 6-8 weeks. However, timing will largely depend on the complexity of your situation, your preparedness for meetings and decisiveness, and the office’s workload is during a given time. Our streamlined process and consistent communication speeds up the process. While efficiency is a priority, a quality and effective plan that will work, benefit you, and make things easy on you and your family are our top priority. We’ve finished plans in 3 days in emergency situations, but have also had processes go on for 6 months or more because clients are busy and life happens – we do our best to meet you where you are at and make the process as efficient as reasonably possible.

Oftentimes, the destruction of family relationships due to a lack of proper planning occurs in non-wealthy families. And while estate taxes may not be an issue for you, there are many other important issues for you to address. For example: Who will take care of you, your health, and your finances during a period when you cannot do so for yourself? How will my plan affect income taxes now and in the future? Who will care for your minor children (and in what manner) if you are unable to? How difficult and time-consuming will the process of dealing with your estate be on your family when they are in the midst of grieving? Who will be in charge of your estate and where your assets or heirlooms go? These are just a few issues that arise for ALL families, not just the super wealthy. If you care about these choices, you should develop an estate plan. An attorney can greatly reduce the risk of something going awry with your plan and walking you through the process. We don’t sell expensive documents but the tools and knowledge to navigate YOUR situation.