NORMAN ESTATE PLANNING & PROBATE LAWYERS
Compassionate & Capable Legal Help for Your Family
Most people believe that estate planning is something only necessary for those with a high net worth. This is not true. No matter the size of your estate, if you fail to plan for your future, the decisions about your assets and property will be left up to a court that has little knowledge of you. These decisions are private and personal ones that only you should make.
At Nichols Dixon, our Norman estate planning and probate attorneys are here to help you establish an estate plan or navigate the probate process with skill and efficiency. We can design a customized plan that will protect you, your family, and your assets. If you are entering probate, we can work to help ensure that you and other beneficiaries avoid complications and get the most out of the legal process. Our firm is committed to providing exceptional service to clients throughout Seminole and Cleveland counties.
CONTACT a Norman estate planning and probate attorney at (405) 294-1511 to discuss your legal needs.
Estate Plans
An estate plan will delineate how your assets and property will be distributed and should minimize tax consequences while eliminating the need and expense of probate. Such a plan should also eliminate stress and confusion for your family members when faced with your incapacity or death. These plans can provide instructions related to your medical and end-of-life care, and can appoint a person to make decisions on your behalf if you are unable due to physical or mental inability. Wills and trusts are essential if you want to make sure your wishes are carried out after you die. In addition to distributing your assets and property, wills and trusts can also be used to avoid some of the expenses associated with probate and estate taxes.
We can assist you with estate planning tools such as:
- Irrevocable trusts
- Revocable trusts
- Special needs trusts
- Wills
- Living wills
- Powers of attorney
What Is the Difference Between a Will & a Trust?
A will is a written and signed document that states who will receive your property after your death. A trust is an arrangement where you enter into a legal agreement with a trustee who holds legal title to your property for the beneficiary until it is time for the property to be distributed. A will goes into effect after you pass away, while a trust takes effect once you establish it. With a trust, you can also distribute property and assets before you die.
Probate
Probate is the process of handling of a deceased individual’s estate through the court system. This process is subject to complicated state laws and can take a minimum of six months to accomplish.
It involves:
- Validating the deceased person’s will if one exists
- Identifying and valuing assets
- Locating and paying off debts and taxes
- Distributing what remains to beneficiaries
The probate process can be incredibly complex and confusing. It is in your best interest to enlist the help of a knowledgeable Norman probate attorney if your family is facing probate.
You Can Rely on Nichols Dixon
Our firm is well-known for its level of care and professionalism. Whether you need legal assistance with an estate plan or probate, we are here to provide you with capable and efficient representation.
Talk to one of our experienced attorneys today by calling (405) 294-1511.
