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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to plan ahead if I am in the middle stages of my
life and do not have substantial net worth?
Recently, the Terry Shiavo case shed light on the need to have a
contingency plan in place regardless of what stage of you life you
are at. At the time of her incapacitation, Ms. Shiavo was in her
twenties. Children place a greater burden on that concern. Any decision
that an individual makes is a very private matter. Speak with people
that you are most comfortable with through informal mediation. In
otherwords, pool together your most trusted family members and financial,
spiritual, and legal advisors to discuss the matter – hedge
against the unexpected. Ask the tough questions - death and dying
are two issues that we all must inevitably face. Preparing yourself
and your family for the process is one of the most selfless acts
that you can do. The cost of probating an estate in Indiana can be
up to 6% of the first $100,000. If you own property in more than
one state, this figure could double. If properly planned and executed,
an estate plan can save you substantially.
My grandfather has been placed in a nursing home and he may qualify
for aid, but my family is so confused about what services he is entitled
to, as well as his rights as a nursing home patient. Is there some
way to educate our family about this process?
Absolutely. Your public library is a great place to start. There are
also some excellent books listed on the Resource page of this website.
Education is key! It has been demonstrated that individuals in long-term
care facilities with concerned family members receive better care.
Although the whole long-term care process can be intimidating, by educating
yourself and partnering with the care providers, you are benefiting
your loved one beyond measure.
Why is the estate planning process so costly?
Good question. Let’s start off by saying that by taking the
time to properly plan, you are making a wise investment in your
family and yourself. Typically, if an individual dies without a trust
in place, a probate proceeding is initiated and administered through
your local probate court. The purpose of a properly drafted, funded,
and executed estate plan is to avoid the probate process. Thus, through
much discussion, analyzing, and planning, the proper legal documents
are prepared to fit your particular needs. As mentioned above, if
an individual owns property in more than one state the typical probate
costs can double. By funding your trust with your personal and real
property, you may avoid the probate process. However, if you fail
to update your trust by failing to place later acquired property
into the trust, you may still face the probate process. By working
collaboratively with your financial, spiritual, and legal advisors,
you should be able to determine what the best approach is for you
and your family. In conclusion, although the cost of preparing an
estate plan is costly, the goal of the planning process is spare
your surviving family members the excessive costs in time and money
to administer your estate. You control the decision making process
during your lifetime and beyond by planning ahead.
How do I start the process?
Very simply. Start off by contacting Crossin
Law Offices, and we will provide you with the client intake form.
Next, print the financial summary sheet found under the Net
Worth page. We will arrange a convenient time and location
to meet and discuss your needs. Ms. Crossin is very willing to meet
with the client in the setting that is most comfortable to the client.
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