Why Estate Planning Matters - An Introduction to Fries Legal Services, PLLC
Meet Your Michigan Estate Planning Attorney
Hello, my name is Colleen M. Fries, and I'm the attorney behind Fries Legal Services, PLLC. I'm proud to serve clients across the state of Michigan through my virtual and mobile law office. That means I can meet you where you are-online or in-person-because planning for your future shouldn't be inconvenient.
What Is Estate Planning?
When you hear the words "estate planning," you may think it's only about leaving money or property behind when you pass away. But it's much more than that.
Estate planning is the process of creating a clear set of instructions about what should happen to your money, property, and personal decisions-both after you're gone and while you're still living.
Wills and Trusts: Instructions for Your Loved Ones
Think of a will or a trust as a book of instructions. In those documents, you nominate a trusted person to handle the business of transferring your money and property. They follow the instructions you've left, making sure your assets go to the people or charities you've chosen.
With a will, your instructions go through the probate court process. With a trust, your instructions may be carried out outside of court, often more privately and efficiently.
Beneficiary and Transfer on Death Designations
Not everything passes through a will or trust. Beneficiary designations (for things like life insurance or retirement accounts) and transfer on death designations (often used for bank accounts) allow property to transfer directly to the people or organizations you've named. Usually, this requires only a completed form and a death certificate-keeping things simple for your loved ones.
Powers of Attorney: Protecting You While You're Living
Estate planning isn't just about what happens after you pass. It also ensures you're protected during your lifetime.
A financial power of attorney allows someone you trust to handle your finances if you cannot. A medical power of attorney gives another person the authority to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you're unable to.
Without these documents, your family may face court delays, extra stress, and uncertainty about your wishes during a crisis.
Estate Planning Is for Everyone
Estate planning isn't just for the wealthy-it's for anyone who has money, property, or personal wishes they want honored. Ask yourself these questions:
- Who do I want to give my money to when I pass?
- Who do I want to leave my property to?
- Who do I want to handle my finances if I can't?
- Who do I want to make my medical decisions if I'm unable to?
If you have answers to these questions, estate planning is right for you.
Take the First Step
At Fries Legal Services, my goal is simple: to make the estate planning process approachable, clear, and personal to you. Everyone deserves the comfort of knowing their future-and their family's future-is secure.
If you've been putting off estate planning, I encourage you to take that first step today. Click the link to contact me either by phone or email and schedule a consultation.
