Getting started with estate planning
A practical list of the people, decisions, and documents that may be helpful to consider as you begin.
Planning resources
Helpful guidance for the questions ahead.
Estate planning can feel like a lot to take in. These plain-language resources are here to help you begin with clarity, prepare for a conversation, and move forward at your own pace.
Planning guides
A thoughtful place to start.
These simple starting points can help you organize your thoughts before a consultation. They are educational resources, not legal advice.
Choosing trusted decision-makers
Key questions to consider when choosing the people who may make financial or health care decisions on your behalf.
Planning for the people you love
A thoughtful way to prepare for conversations about guardianship, inheritance, and the future you want for your children.
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to common planning questions.
What is estate planning?
Estate planning is the process of putting legal documents and practical instructions in place to help protect you, your loved ones, and the assets you have worked hard to build. A plan can address who makes decisions if you cannot, how property is managed or transferred, and how you want to care for the people who depend on you.
Do I need a will if I do not have a large estate?
Many adults benefit from having at least a basic plan in place. A will, powers of attorney, and health care directives can provide important direction even when your estate is straightforward. The right plan depends on your family, assets, goals, and the people you want to protect.
What is the difference between a will and a trust?
A will generally directs how assets are handled after death and can name guardians for minor children. A trust is a separate legal arrangement that can hold and manage assets during life and after death. Trusts can offer flexibility and may help address specific family, privacy, or administration goals.
When should I update my estate plan?
It is wise to review your plan after major life changes, such as marriage, divorce, the birth or adoption of a child, a move, a significant change in assets, or the death or incapacity of someone named in your documents. Even without a major change, a periodic review can help ensure your plan still reflects your wishes.
What happens during a consultation?
A consultation is a chance to talk through your family, priorities, and questions in a calm, confidential setting. Emma will help you understand the planning choices that may be relevant to your circumstances and what a practical next step could look like.
Questions are a good place to begin.
A conversation with Emma can help you understand which questions matter most for your family and your next steps.