No one lives forever, so when the time comes to make a plan to protect your financial assets and distribute them to your beneficiaries, it’s important to understand the different types of lawyers who work with these issues and what they do. While probate and estate are related matters, there are important differences between the two. Learning to protect financial assets from the probate process is one way to maximize the benefits that your loved ones receive after you pass away. That’s why the smart thing to do is to speak with a skilled Texas estate planning lawyer who can address both estate and probate concerns.
Which Type of Lawyer Do You Need?
An estate planning lawyer is someone who can help you plan the distribution of your estate while you are still alive and before you have become incapacitated. Some of the documents that this type of lawyer can prepare for you are a will, a trust, or a power of attorney that gives someone else the ability to manage your health and financial decisions if you should become unable to do so. For the most part, an estate planning lawyer handles the estate matters that exist while you are still alive.
On the other hand, a probate lawyer is someone who deals with the probate process, or the distribution of your assets after your death. This type of lawyer will use what remains of your assets to pay off your debts and will then use the documents prepared by an estate lawyer to distribute the rest of them to your beneficiaries. It’s always wise to consult an estate planning lawyer before you die so that after you pass away, your assets are not tied up in a lengthy probate process.
Call to Schedule a Free Consultation With a Texas Estate Planning Lawyer Today
If you have financial assets or an estate that you want to leave behind for your beneficiaries, call to schedule a free consultation with a Texas estate planning lawyer today. The experienced legal professionals at the Voeller Law Firm are equipped to help you make a solid plan for your unique estate. Visit our web page at voellerlaw.com or give us a call at 210-985-2741 and set up your consultation with one of our knowledgeable staff. We serve the city of San Antonio and will be happy to serve you, too.