Experienced Guidance Through Estate Planning And Probate
Estate planning is essential for South Bend residents of all ages and means. Creating a plan allows you to determine the fate of your hard-earned assets, provide for your loved ones’ care and document your end-of-life preferences. Whether you would like to create a living will or you require probate assistance, Hammerschmidt, Amaral & Jonas is here to assist you.
Our firm provides the guidance you need to administer a loved one’s estate, proceed through probate or create your own estate plan. With more than 100 years of attorney experience, we have the knowledge and advice you need.
We handle all aspects of estate law, such as:
- Trusts
- Living wills
- Guardianships
- Health care powers of attorney
- Guardianships
- Business succession planning
- Estate administration
- Probate
Creating The Personalized Estate Plan You Need
Our lawyers never take a cookie-cutter approach to estate planning. We personalize every document to suit your individual circumstances. You can rest assured that your estate plan will meet your unique situation and needs.
How Often Should I Update My Estate Plan?
If you already have an estate plan, you should update it every three to five years or after any major life event. This ensures that your assets and property pass to the beneficiaries you wish. If you do not have an up-to-date estate plan, the court will typically honor the will that you previously created — even if it is several years old. If you never created an estate plan, Indiana law will determine the fate of your property.
Do I Need An Attorney To Administer My Loved One’s Estate?
If you are the executor of your deceased loved one’s estate, you may consider saving money by administering the estate on your own. However, if you make a mistake or encounter an unanticipated problem, you could end up spending more money than you would have on hiring an attorney. Working with a skilled lawyer to administer your loved one’s estate or to navigate probate can make the process proceed more smoothly and efficiently. It will also reduce your stress during this already-difficult time.
Hammerschmidt, Amaral & Jonas can resolve litigious disputes in the event of a will contest. We can represent either the party contesting the will or the party defending it.
Schedule Your Appointment With An Experienced Attorney
Our legal team can help you address the difficult legal aspects of estate planning, probate and estate administration. To talk to one of our lawyers, schedule a consultation by calling 574-400-8608. You can also contact our South Bend office online.