A will is a legal document that establishes how your assets will be distributed upon your death.  It is the backbone of almost all estate plans.  A will sets out how any debts and taxes will be paid, and distributes your assets such as real property, bank accounts, personal belongings, family heirlooms, and cars, all according to your wishes.  If you do not create a will, or your will is declared invalid because it does not meet the legal requirements, your assets are distributed according to state law.

Take control of your future and contact Swedlow Law about drafting your will.

A trust is a legal entity that can be used to manage your assets during your lifetime and after your death.  Generally, a trust is created to hold and manage assets for the benefit of a beneficiary.  Trusts can offer benefits such as avoiding probate expenses and reducing estate taxes.  There are many types of trusts including revocable living trusts, irrevocable trusts, testamentary trusts, special needs trusts, and more.

Swedlow Law can assist in creating a trust to manage your assets.

A Power of Attorney is a legal document that grants someone the authority to make decisions on your behalf.  Generally, this power depends on your ability to consent to giving it.  A Durable Power of Attorney is created to grant someone authority that lasts even if you become mentally incapacitated.

Swedlow Law offers Durable Financial Powers of Attorney which grant another person the authority to manage your finances in the event of your incapacitation or other situations which you designate.

Just as a financial power of attorney grants a person authority to manage your financial affairs, a Medical Power of Attorney is a legal document that grants someone the authority to make medical decision for your care.  This can include specific directives on end of life care as well as the power to consent to medical procedures.

Swedlow Law provides guidance for discussion of these decisions to empower you to make an informed plan for directions in the event you are not able to make these decisions on your own.

A living will or advance directive outlines your wishes regarding medical treatment if you become incapacitated.  Used in conjunction with a Medical Power of Attorney, it is essential to ensure that your wishes and preferences for end of life care are honored.

In Maryland, parents are able to designate a standby guardian in the event that they become mentally incapacitated, physically debilitated, or subject to an adverse immigration action.  With the proper written designation, the standby guardian is able to make financial decisions for the minor child as well as serve as the legal guardian, making decisions in regards to housing, medical care, education, and other everyday needs.

Circumstances change and sometimes that means a change of plans for your estate.  Swedlow Law offers codicils or amendment to wills whether or not Swedlow Law drafted the original.