Frequently Asked Questions

Estate planning can feel complicated — we make it simple.

We’ve answered the most common questions in plain English, so you can feel confident and in control of your future.

❓How much does an estate plan cost?

💬 Every family is unique, so your plan should be too. Cost depends on your specific goals, the type of plan, and how complex your estate is. After a short discovery call, we’ll give you a clear quote—no surprises, no pressure.
👉 Schedule a free discovery call to see what’s right for you.

❓Do I need an attorney to create an estate plan, or can I use online forms?

💬 Online templates may seem convenient, but they often miss critical details and don’t account for Utah’s specific laws. A professional plan ensures your documents are legally sound, coordinated, and tailored to your exact wishes.
A one-size-fits-all form can’t protect your one-of-a-kind family.

❓How long does the estate planning process take?

💬 Most clients complete their plans in just a few weeks. After your initial consultation, we gather the details, draft your documents, review everything with you, and finalize signatures.
We move at your pace—fast enough to get it done, thorough enough to do it right.

❓How often should I review or update my estate plan?

💬 We recommend reviewing your plan every 3–5 years, or any time there’s a major life change: marriage, divorce, new children or grandchildren, buying property, or significant financial shifts. Keeping your plan up to date ensures your wishes always match your current life.

❓What happens if I move to another state? Do I need a new plan?

💬 Possibly. Each state has its own laws governing wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. If you move, we can review your current plan and make simple updates to ensure it complies with your new state’s requirements.
Think of it like updating your driver’s license—same you, just valid in a new place.

❓Can I make changes to my will or trust after it’s signed?

💬 Absolutely. Life changes, and your estate plan should, too.
We can easily amend your will or update your trust through what’s called a restatement. You don’t need to start from scratch—just refresh the parts that have changed.

❓Can a trust protect my assets from creditors or lawsuits?

💬 Certain types of trusts can offer asset protection, depending on your goals and circumstances. While a standard revocable trust doesn’t shield assets from creditors, an irrevocable trust or other specialized structure might.
We’ll help you choose the right approach to safeguard what you’ve built.

❓What types of assets should be included in my estate plan?

💬 Your estate plan should account for everything you own and care about.
That includes:

  • Your home and any real estate

  • Bank and investment accounts

  • Retirement funds and life insurance policies

  • Business interests

  • Personal property and valuables
    Even digital assets—like online accounts or cryptocurrency—should be considered.

❓How do I name a guardian for my children?

💬 You’ll name a guardian in your will or trust—someone who shares your values and can provide stability for your children. We’ll help you think through who’s best suited and how to legally appoint them, so your children are always in the right hands.

❓What happens if my beneficiaries are minors?

💬 Minor children can’t directly inherit property. A trust or custodial account ensures their inheritance is managed responsibly until they’re old enough to handle it.
This keeps the courts out of the process and gives you control over how and when they receive their inheritance.

❓Can I disinherit someone?

💬 Yes, but it must be done thoughtfully and explicitly in your estate plan. If you simply leave someone out, they could contest your will or trust. We’ll help you document your intentions clearly so your wishes are respected and legally protected.

❓What is probate, and why do people try to avoid it?

💬 Probate is a court process for distributing a deceased person’s assets. It can take months (or even years) and often adds stress and cost for loved ones.
A properly funded trust can help your family avoid probate altogether—saving time, money, and headaches.

❓What happens if I die without an estate plan?

💬 The state decides.
Without a valid will or trust, Utah’s intestacy laws determine who inherits your property—and it might not be who you’d choose. A plan ensures your wishes, not the state’s default rules, guide your legacy.

❓What is an Advance Health Care Directive (AHCD)?

💬 An AHCD lets you express your medical preferences and name someone to make decisions if you can’t. It covers life support, pain management, resuscitation, and more—so your loved ones can act with confidence, not confusion.

❓What’s a Power of Attorney, and why do I need one?

💬 A Power of Attorney (POA) gives someone you trust authority to act for you in financial or legal matters if you’re unable. It ensures your bills get paid, your home is cared for, and your affairs stay on track even when you can’t manage them yourself.

❓Why is an unfunded trust essentially useless?

💬 A trust only works if it owns your assets. If you create a trust but don’t retitle property or accounts into it, those assets won’t be covered—and may still go through probate.
We guide every client through funding to make sure your trust actually does its job.

❓I’m not wealthy. Do I really need an estate plan?

💬 Yes! Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for anyone who loves someone. Whether you own a business, a home, or just want to make life easier for your family, a plan gives them clarity and comfort during difficult times.

❓When should I start estate planning?

💬 The best time to plan is before you think you need it.
Life can change in an instant. The sooner you start, the more peace of mind you’ll have knowing everything—and everyone—is protected.

Ready to protect your family’s future?

Let’s make sure your story ends the way you want it told.