At the Law Offices of Meghan E. McNulty, Inc., We Focus on Estate Plans That Actually Work—When Your Family Needs Them Most
If you’ve already created a will, you’ve taken a valuable first step. But many people are surprised to learn that a will alone often isn’t enough to keep their loved ones out of court or conflict. Without a full estate plan in place, your family may still need to go through probate—a public and often costly legal process.
At our firm, we take a more complete and practical approach to estate planning. We help our clients build plans that cover more than just documents. We focus on real-life scenarios, from incapacity to business succession, and offer guidance that reflects your family, your assets, and your future.
A Will Is Not a Probate Avoidance Tool
Wills are important but they don’t avoid court. A will simply tells a judge how you want your estate distributed, which means your family still has to go through probate.
A thoughtful estate plan often includes:
- A revocable living trust to avoid probate and provide clarity
- Durable powers of attorney to help manage financial decisions
- Health care directives to ensure your medical choices are honored
These tools work together to provide support during your lifetime and make things easier for your family later.
Understanding the Role of Trusts vs. LLCs
Some clients ask whether forming an LLC is enough to protect their estate. The short answer: LLCs protect against liability, while trusts protect against probate. Each plays a different role in planning, and knowing how to use them together can save time, stress, and unnecessary expenses.
When Should You Review Your Plan?
Your estate plan should grow with your life. A quick check-in is a good idea if:
- You’ve purchased a new home or real estate
- You’ve opened a business or brought on a partner
- You’ve gotten married, divorced, or had children
- You’ve recently moved to California
- It’s been more than 3 years since your last review
We’re Here When You Need Us And for Those You Care About Too
If it’s been a while since we last connected, we’re happy to help review your plan and make updates if needed. And if you have friends or family who could benefit from the same peace of mind, we’d be honored to speak with them too.
We appreciate the trust you’ve placed in us and we’re always here to support you and your loved ones.
Warmly,
The Law Offices of Meghan E. McNulty, Inc.