A recent Forbes article alerted readers to the professionals known as “estate planning aggregators” and how they offer a plethora of services to people interested in managing their assets with an eye to estate planning.
Many people fortunate enough to own substantial assets are concerned about minimizing their tax burden. This is no less important even after death, because estate taxes come to bear. The article related how estate planning aggregators may play upon that fear in encouraging clients to pay for a complex and unnecessarily convoluted “report”, plus “canned” advice from a series of fee-based advisors.
Finances and taxes are complicated by nature; proper management requires training and discretion. Misinformation as well as less-than-expert guidance can be disastrous. Estate planning can also be complex, and has an emotional overlay in that embarking on the process of organizing your estate means confronting the fact of your own mortality.
So what is the best way to proceed? The Forbes article clearly shows that the services of an aggregator may provide more cost than clarity. We believe that consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney who has your best interests in mind should be the first direction in which to turn.
Some elements of a comprehensive estate plan can include a will, powers of attorney, advance healthcare directives, and often, for high net worth individuals, one or more trusts. When considerable assets and property are at issue, the selection of the right attorney is essential to protect you and your loved ones both now and in the future.
Remember, this blog is our opinion, and is meant as a discussion aid. It is not intended as legal advice. Should you have questions or concerns about how California estate planning law or family law may apply to you, you may wish to consult a knowledgeable family law attorney.
As Orange County’s premier family law specialists, the attorneys at Dinnebier & Demmerle can provide answers to your questions and concerns, clarify and establish your legal rights, and represent you in court. If you would like more information about estate planning or any other aspect of California family law, please call to set up a consultation. We’re ready to move forward when you are. Just contact us in Tustin at 714-598-3714.