Expectations When Creating an Estate Plan

Episode 7: Attorney Brandon Lawrence opens this episode of Protect Your Nest by outlining what clients can expect during an estate planning consultation, regardless of whether their estate is worth $200,000 or $2 million. He explains that the process begins with an intake form to identify goals before moving to a detailed meeting or Zoom call. Brandon emphasizes that every family situation is unique, requiring customized plans rather than "cookie-cutter" solutions to protect spouses and children. He discusses sensitive scenarios, such as remarriage, and how trusts can ensure a person's assets go to their children rather than a spouse's future partner.

The episode highlights the necessity of planning for incapacity through medical directives and powers of attorney to maintain quality of life during a long-term illness. Brandon also touches on the importance of Medicaid planning, as a way to qualify for assistance with long-term care while preserving an inheritance for heirs. For those with children, he suggests using trusts to set distribution timelines or boundaries and recommends flexible boundaries. He stresses that no amount of money is too small to protect, as modern housing and retirement assets accumulate quickly. Finally, Brandon invites listeners to reach out via his website, LawyerForTheCity.org, to begin securing their family's legacy.

Key Topics:

• The First Step
• Family First Planning
• Planning for the Living
• Smart Distributions
• Tax and Legal Update
• Conclusion

We've talked about a whole lot of things on previous episodes. You can check those out on my website, LawyerForTheCity.org. You can check them out on YouTube as well. And you can call me my number, (502) 996-7735. And you can contact me directly at Help@LawyerForTheCity.org. That's my email address or just direct message me on the website through other social media outlets.

Of course, I'm the Lawyer for the City, Brandon Lawrence.

And this has been another episode of Protect Your Nest. Like I said, you can look back on other episodes and see about the things that we talked about because a lot of these things I've gone in a little bit more in depth. I tried to give you a little bit of overview today. But as usual, protect your nest. Let's talk it over.

This podcast is meant to provide information and is not legal advice. Brandon's principal office is located at 101 N. 7th Street, Louisville, Kentucky 40202.