Las Vegas Estate Planning Lawyers

Creating Wills & Trusts in Nevada

For many people, thinking about developing an estate plan is uncomfortable. However, if you want to provide yourself with end-of-life protections and ease the burden of your passing for friends, family, and love ones, a comprehensive estate plan is vital. At Roberts Stoffel Family Law Group, our Las Vegas estate planning attorneys will work with you to put together a thorough living will, last will and testament, and trust that protects your legacy for generations to come.

To schedule a free initial consultation with our Las Vegas estate planning lawyers, and understand more about how we can help you protect your estate, contact our office online or via phone at (702) 766-5566.

Understanding Wills in Nevada

Most estate plans incorporate two types of wills: last will & testament

Last will and testament. When most people hear the term "will," this is what they think of. A testator (the owner of the will) can use a last will and testament to decree any last wishes they have post-death (such as where they would like their ashes scattered if they choose to be cremated), and state how they would like property to be divided among their beneficiaries post-death.
Living will. Living wills are typically used to establish durable medical and financial power of attorney. These measures determine how the testator is cared for if they are incapacitated or towards the end of their life, governing what kind of medical care they receive and how their estate is handled.

When a testator passes away (becomes a decedent), their estate will go into probate. During probate, a probate court works with the decedent's personal representative or executor (typically appointed in the last) to ensure the decedent's last wishes are honored, and their estate is handled properly. This includes repaying any creditors the decedent owed money to and distributing the property of their estate to beneficiaries in accordance with their will.

If an individual dies without a will, their estate will be handled according to state intestacy laws.

For a will to be valid, the testator must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind. Additionally, the will must be signed by two non-beneficiary witnesses and must be in writing.

How Trusts Work in Nevada

Like wills, trusts are used to award property to the trustee's (the trust-owner's) beneficiaries. couple drafting trust with attorney

However, trusts do not go through probate. As a result, many individuals use trusts to award property to beneficiaries that would take a significant amount of time to be processed by a probate court. In this way, trusts can be used to effectively reduce the time, cost, and stress associated with probate.

The most popular kind of trust is a living revocable trust. This kind of trust is formed while the trustee is alive, and can be adjusted throughout their lifetime. Trustees can also choose to form a trust with another person (a "shared" trust, popular among married couples) or by themselves (an "individual" trust).

After drafting the trust, the trustee must name a successor trustee. This individual will inherit ownership of the trust and be responsible for administrating it if the trustee passes away or becomes incapacitated.

Finally, the trustee must sign the trust in front of a notary public to make it a legally binding document.

At Roberts Stoffel Family Law Group, our Las Vegas estate planning attorneys have the tools to help you develop a comprehensive estate plan that safeguards your legacy.

To schedule a consultation with our estate planning lawyers in Las Vegas and learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals, contact us online or via phone at (702) 766-5566.

Commonly Asked Questions

What is asset protection and why is it important in estate planning?

Asset protection refers to strategies and legal tools used to safeguard an individual's wealth from claims by creditors, lawsuits, or other financial risks. In the context of estate planning, asset protection is crucial as it ensures that your hard-earned assets are preserved for your beneficiaries.

What happens if I die without a will in Nevada?

If you pass away without a will in Nevada, your estate will be distributed according to state intestacy laws. This means that your assets will be allocated to your closest relatives, which may not align with your wishes. The process can also lead to disputes among family members and may result in a lengthy probate process.

What are the key components of a comprehensive estate plan?

A comprehensive estate plan typically includes several key components: a last will and testament, which outlines your wishes for asset distribution; a living will, which specifies your medical care preferences in case of incapacitation; and trusts, which can help manage and protect your assets during your lifetime and after your passing. Additionally, it may involve designating powers of attorney for financial and healthcare decisions.

Why Choose the Las Vegas Estate Planning Lawyers at Roberts Stoffel Family Law Group?

When it comes to planning your estate, the right legal guidance is essential to ensure your assets are protected and your wishes are honored. Here’s why the Las Vegas estate planning lawyers at Roberts Stoffel Family Law Group are the top choice for your estate planning needs:

Expertise in Estate Planning: Our lawyers specialize in estate planning, providing a deep understanding of the complexities involved. With extensive knowledge of wills, trusts, and probate law, we ensure that your estate plan is comprehensive and tailored to your specific needs.
Personalized Service: At Roberts Stoffel Family Law Group, we believe in the importance of personalized attention. We take the time to listen to your goals and concerns, crafting an estate plan that reflects your unique circumstances and future aspirations.
Comprehensive Approach: Our team adopts a holistic approach to estate planning, considering every aspect of your financial and personal situation. We work diligently to safeguard your legacy, addressing potential challenges and ensuring your plan is both robust and flexible.
Commitment to Client Satisfaction: We are dedicated to providing exceptional service and achieving client satisfaction. Our lawyers are approachable, responsive, and committed to guiding you through the estate planning process with clarity and confidence.
Credibility and Achievements: Our firm boasts a team of highly qualified attorneys, recognized for their professionalism and integrity. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our track record of successful estate planning cases and satisfied clients.

Choosing the Las Vegas estate planning attorneys at Roberts Stoffel Family Law Group means trusting a team that prioritizes your peace of mind and the security of your estate. Let our expertise and dedication work for you, ensuring your legacy is protected for future generations.

Get started with safeguarding your estate by scheduling a free initial consultation with our expert Las Vegas estate planning lawyers. Discover how we can assist you in protecting your legacy. Reach out to us online or call us at (702) 766-5566 today!