If you die without a will in Georgia, state law – not your wishes – determines who inherits your property. The law calls this process intestate succession. Under this arrangement, the law follows a fixed order that may not reflect what you would have chosen for your...
Estate Planning
How to reduce the risk of will contests in Georgia
Creating a will is one of the most important steps in estate planning. However, family disputes can arise after a loved one passes away. These conflicts often lead to will contests that delay the distribution of assets. Understanding how to minimize these risks can...
Have you prepared your children for their inheritance?
Estate planning allows you to leave your children assets according to your wishes. However, studies have shown that some people make poor financial decisions after receiving an inheritance – sometimes even losing their entire inheritance. Several emotional,...
Who can serve as executor of an estate in Georgia?
When you create a will, one key decision is naming someone to carry out your final wishes. In Georgia, the person named in a will to handle this role is called the executor. The executor gathers assets, pays debts and distributes property to beneficiaries. Knowing who...
How do you protect your digital assets through an estate plan?
Your photos, emails, online accounts and digital money hold personal and financial value. But unlike traditional assets, these things do not automatically go to your heirs. Problems can arise when you do not include them in your estate plan because your loved ones...
3 common mistakes when drafting a will
A will is a legal document that allows you to direct the distribution of your assets after you pass away. You can name family and loved ones as beneficiaries who can inherit your real estate, valuables and sentimental assets. There are a few simple mistakes, however,...
3 practices of favoritism to avoid when planning your estate
Sometimes, even the most carefully designed wills or trusts can become sources of conflict if they appear to favor certain beneficiaries over others. Favoritism, whether intentional or accidental, can undermine the very purpose of estate planning. When family members...
3 valid reasons your elderly parents are delaying estate planning
Estate planning is crucial for anyone wanting to secure their legacy and help ensure their loved ones are taken care of after they pass away. However, many elderly individuals delay creating a will, trust or other essential documents. While this procrastination can...
Keeping your assets out of probate – even if they aren’t in Georgia
By making the decision to put an estate plan in place, you’re not only helping ensure that your assets will be passed on the way you choose. You’re also making things easier on your loved ones in the aftermath of your death. For many people, that means taking steps to...
Do I need a power of attorney if I have a will?
You may believe that once you have drafted and executed your will, your estate plan is complete. But a will is just one piece of an estate plan. A power of attorney works in conjunction with your will to provide you with a more comprehensive estate plan designed to...

