ESTATE PLANNING IN NORTH CAROLINA

Estate planning can be a difficult topic to discuss, but it is essential to address to protect your assets and provide for your loved ones. Many legal issues can arise from neglecting estate planning or handling it too hastily. At Crosswhite Law, we understand that every individual's life, family, and assets are unique, which is why we do not use "cookie cutter" documents for estate plans. Instead, we work closely with you to create a customized plan tailored to your specific needs. With years of experience and countless satisfied clients, we design comprehensive plans that address all pertinent issues. We also help you maintain, fine-tune, or amend your plan as your circumstances change throughout your lifetime. Our estate planning services include creating unique and individualized documents such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare designations, all intended to protect your assets now and in the event of your incapacity or death.

Connect with Crosswhite Law online or call (704) 873-7233 to schedule your confidential consultation with one of our estate planning attorneys.

Comprehensive Estate Planning

At Crosswhite Law, we serve the estate planning needs of individuals throughout North Carolina. Our attorneys are skilled problem-solvers who understand the common pitfalls associated with estate planning.

Common Tools of Estate Planning

• Last Will and Testament: A will is a legal document that outlines how you want your assets distributed after your death. It allows you to name an executor to manage your estate and guardians for your minor children. A will ensures that your wishes are followed and provides clarity for your loved ones.
• Revocable Living Trusts: A revocable living trust allows you to manage your assets during your lifetime and specify how they should be distributed after your death. This type of trust helps avoid probate, maintains privacy, and allows for flexible management of your assets.
• Charitable Trusts: Charitable trusts enable you to support a favorite charity while receiving tax benefits. These trusts can be set up during your lifetime or through your will and can provide a legacy of giving.
• Power of Attorney: A power of attorney allows you to appoint someone to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. This ensures that your affairs are managed according to your wishes, even if you cannot manage them yourself.
• Healthcare Power of Attorney and Medical Directives: These documents allow you to specify your medical preferences and appoint someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you cannot do so yourself. This ensures that your medical care aligns with your values and wishes.
• Irrevocable Trusts: Irrevocable trusts cannot be altered once established. They offer significant tax benefits and asset protection by removing the assets from your taxable estate. Control and management of the assets in an irrevocable trust are handled by the named trustee, not the grantor.
• Special Needs Trusts: These trusts are designed to provide for individuals with disabilities without compromising their eligibility for government benefits. A special needs trust ensures that the beneficiary receives financial support while maintaining access to essential services.
• Testamentary Trusts: A testamentary trust is created through a will and becomes effective upon your death. This type of trust can provide for minor children, special needs beneficiaries, or any other specific needs outlined in your will. It offers a way to manage and protect assets for beneficiaries who may not be able to manage them on their own.