Estate Planning

Wilkes-Barre and Kingston, PA Estate Law Attorneys

An estate plan can ensure that your wishes and goals are carried out

While people may find talking about wills and life planning as morbid, estate planning really just means thinking ahead about your future. Estate law and estate planning are not about death; they are about how to protect the assets you worked so hard to earn and the financial security of your family. The actual execution of an estate plan is usually the result of combining legal processes with financial products, and that’s where having experience on your side can really make a difference.

I can guide you in creating a comprehensive estate plan that minimizes estate taxes, clearly expresses your wishes and desires for your assets and protects your right to control your health care and financial decisions. At Angela F. Stevens, Attorney at Law we can help you in developing a plan that is right for your individual needs. A well-executed estate plan can include:

  • Power of attorney
  • Advance directive and healthcare power of attorney
  • Guardianship
  • Conservatorship
  • Inheritance tax and estate tax planning
  • Minimizing probate
  • Orphan's Court or probate litigation
  • Will
  • Trust
  • Special needs planning
  • Retirement planning

Why so many documents?

Every individual is different, every situation is different. The documents in your estate plan are tailored to meet your unique needs. I work with you to understand what’s important to you, and then construct an estate plan that reflects your priorities. There are often trade-offs that need to be made and the process can be complex and emotional at times. I can help you understand how the law applies to your situation and your options for moving forward. I explain the importance of each document and what its purpose is so that you fully understand everything you are developing before you put the documents into effect. My goal is to make sure you feel secure and are satisfied with your plan for the future.

Estate Planning To Benefit Animals

Unfortunately, the law in Pennsylvania considers animals to be personal property. The law provides them with no special rights. In the event of  your death, they will be treated as personal property for purposes of administration of your estate, unless you plan ahead for their care. Those of us who have been fortunate enough to share our lives with a pet, know and understand that our pets are not just "personal property."   If your pets are important to you, do not forget to include them in your estate plan. Call us to find out how to plan for their future care in the event of  your death. 

Estate planning problem? We Can Solve It.

Angela F. Stevens, Attorney at Law is a full-service law firm with offices serving the Wilkes-Barre, Kingston and all of the Wyoming Valley including Luzerne, Lackawanna, Wyoming and surrounding cities. We are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and evenings and weekends by appointment. Feel free to call us toll free at 1-844-PA-SOLVE (1-844-727-6583), 570-718-4900 or contact us online to tell us about how we can help with your questions regarding wills, trusts and estate planning.