Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning

Everyone 18 years of age and older should have a valid Will.  The Will must be in writing and signed in the presence of two witnesses who also must sign the Will and an Affidavit confirming the execution of the Will and the makers’ competence.

In addition to a Will, the attorney may recommend signing a Durable General Power of Attorney and an Advance Directive.  The Power of Attorney appoints someone else with authority to sign your name to important documents.  The Advance Directive appoints someone else to have authority to make health care decisions for you, when you are unable to do so.

A Revocable Living Trust may be desirable, in addition to the other estate plan documents mentioned above, in order to avoid probate, and to set up a method for managing your real and personal property assets while you are alive and in the event of your incapacity.

Spouses and domestic partners may want to enter into agreements limiting the other person’s ability to distribute assets after the second partner’s death, by entering into separate trusts and/or agreements not to revoke Wills and/or Trusts, for the protection of children and other potential beneficiaries.

If you or someone you know needs legal representation, contact Kryger Alexander Carlson PC at (541) 928-6171 (Albany Office) to set up an appointment to speak with one of our attorneys, or submit a free case review form.