FAQ

Estate planning is the process of preparing for the management and distribution of your assets after you pass away. It includes creating legal documents such as wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. Estate planning is important because it ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, helps minimize taxes and legal fees, and provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Commonwealth Legal PLLC offers a range of legal services, including:

• Estate Planning
• Wills and Trusts
• Power of Attorney
• Advance Healthcare Directives
• Medicaid Planning
• Veteran Estate Planning
• Asset Protection
• Probate Administration
• Small Business Support

To start the estate planning process, contact our office to schedule a consultation. During this meeting, you'll discuss your goals and needs with Attorney Scott Martin, who will guide you through the steps and help you create a personalized estate plan.

Probate is the legal process of administering a deceased person's estate, including distributing assets and paying debts. It is necessary when a person dies with a will or without any estate planning documents. Probate ensures that the deceased's wishes are honored and that assets are distributed according to the law.

A living will is a document that outlines your wishes regarding medical treatment if you become incapacitated and cannot communicate your decisions. A healthcare power of attorney allows you to appoint someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. Both documents ensure your medical preferences are followed.

Medicaid planning and asset protection strategies can help protect your assets from being depleted by long-term care costs. Our office can assist you in creating a plan that qualifies you for Medicaid benefits while preserving your estate.

When choosing an executor for your will, consider someone who is trustworthy, organized, and capable of handling financial matters. The executor will be responsible for managing your estate, paying debts, and distributing assets according to your will. It is also important to discuss your decision with the person you choose to ensure they are willing to accept the responsibility.

A special needs trust is a legal arrangement designed to provide financial support for individuals with disabilities without affecting their eligibility for government benefits. It allows for the management and protection of assets for the benefit of the disabled individual. Families with special needs members should consider setting up a special needs trust.

You can schedule a consultation by calling our office at (804) 470-9975 or emailing us at scott@cwlegal.org. Our office is located at 14321 Winter Breeze Drive, Suite 129, Midlothian, VA 23113. We look forward to assisting you with your legal needs.