Copper State Planning - Estate Planning Attorney

Copper State Planning specializes in estate planning and probate. We understand that every family is unique, and we provide personalized solutions. Tax planning, business succession, and various types of trusts are covered. I am a member of respected organizations such as the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and the Arizona Fiduciaries Association. The probate process After death, it can be stressful to wind down the affairs. Our staff is ready to help you understand probate and estate administration, colloquially known as a legal proceeding. Probate involves proving a will. The will is submitted to the court, which will review it to determine whether it represents the testator's wishes accurately. If the court approves the will, the estate administration process can begin. Colloquially, this process involves the settlement of the decedent's debts and the distribution of any remaining funds to the heirs. This is the final accounting. This is a crucial process because it is the only way to make banks, DMVs, and other institutions retitle assets, such as vehicles or accounts. Because they don't like risk, these institutions will not retitle accounts simply because you have brought a death certificate. It gets more complicated. Not all estates are subject to probate's formal processes. Small estates may use a simplified probate process where they can use affidavits to transfer assets to heirs. A revocable estate trust funded and created properly in the deceased person's life may be able to administer the estate without the courts. Additionally, many types of assets are not probate assets because they have beneficiaries. This can include retirement accounts, life insurance, or real estate with a joint tenancy. They pass by law or by contract. The nominated representative may be able to file the probate themselves, but having a professional help sort out which assets will go through probate can save time and give peace of mind. If there is no will, probate will be done through intestacy. If there's no clear default executor in place, it's important to get expert advice on the best course of action. Feel free to reach out with any questions you may have on how to handle the assets, how to proceed with the probate filing process, and whether this is necessary.

The reviews for Copper State Planning highlight the firm's knowledgeable, insightful assistance with estate planning. Leighton is praised for his professionalism and the time he takes to explain the process and answer all questions. Most clients believe that the planning method is straightforward and useful and put their family's best interests at the forefront. The overall verdict is that the service is excellent and that most of them are extremely pleased with the process's results. The reviews make it clear that clients can rest easy after using Copper State Planning.