Advanced funeral planning may seem premature or morbid, but it can also be a cathartic experience and a gift to your heirs and family members. You may not realize all of the anguish that can happen after death, as loved ones worry about honoring someone’s wishes correctly. Wouldn’t it be a wonderful gift to guide loved ones through pre-determined arrangements to ensure a proper, respectful and meaningful ceremony? Funeral planning is a natural extension of estate planning at Wiles Law Firm. Not only can you protect and honor someone’s legacy at Wiles through our Legacy Letter program, but your estate documents can also include formal plans for a funeral, service or celebration. A local funeral home like McAlister-Smith Funeral Home can help you develop detailed and loving plans to be included in your estate when you are ready. They are committed to providing your family with the highest quality care and service in your time of need, and they take pride in lightening your burden as you take the first steps toward healing.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, an increasing number of people are beginning to plan their funerals in advance, even paying for them in advance, to relieve family members of stress. The FTC recommends to, “put your preferences in writing, give copies to family members and your attorney, and keep a copy in a handy place. And avoid putting the only copy of your preferences in a safe deposit box. That’s because your family may have to make arrangements on a weekend or holiday, before the box can be opened.”
Once you make an estate plan, it’s imperative to include any and all wishes for a funeral or service as your estate plan represents the first step towards legally determining what can happen next. Only 21% of Americans have spoken to their loved ones about their wishes. And one out of five Americans haven’t broached the subject, as they are waiting for their loved ones to bring the topic up first. Let’s change that reluctant conversation into a loving, planning experience and relieve the burden from your heirs. No matter where you are in the process, we’re here to simplify or plan the estate’s next steps and get you through this transition smoothly. Wiles Law can guide and protect your loved one’s legacy through estate planning, probate and trust administration and fulfillment. We are here to help you start these delicate conversations and navigate life after death.
Our services include:
ESTATE PLANNING
- Design a Plan (Will, Trust, LLC, etc.)
- Align Assets
- Asset Protection
- Education & Maintenance
PROBATE ADMINISTRATION
- Reading of the Last Will
- Transfer of Assets
- Closing of Estate
- Representation in Probate Court
TRUST ADMINISTRATION
- Assist Trustees
- Timeline Management
- Draft Legal Documents
- Distribution
We’ll offer caring support so your family and friends can do their grieving in a safe environment, while we guide the wishes of your loved ones. Knowing where to start is the first step to peace of mind. See our checklist below on how we can help after the funeral is over.
- Review of Estate Plan & Assets
- Review Deadlines, Duties, & Liabilities
- Review of Potential Fees & Taxes
- Asset Protection
- Probate Representation
- Death Benefits & Insurance Claims
- Transfer of Assets
- Trustee Reviews
- Distribution Proposals
- Closing of the Estate
- Final Accounting & Asset Distribution
Let us help you celebrate an enduring legacy left behind and provide a healing experience for those who remain. Contact us today to setup an appointment with one of our experienced estate planning attorneys. It’s never too late to protect more.