Wyles Johnson and Amanda Owens, Board-Certified Specialists in Elder Law, speak about the “Essentials of Estate Planning” in Morehead City.

The Leon Mann Jr. Enrichment Center hosted our White & Allen Elder Law Specialists for a discussion on the “Essentials of Estate Planning: What to Know and Pitfalls to Avoid.” Wyles Johnson and Amanda Owens, addressed a group of seniors in Morehead City committed to proactively managing their futures. During their presentation, Wyles and Amanda emphasized the significance of being “S.M.A.R.T” and shared insights through a real-life family case study.

“S.M.A.R.T” is a simple way to tackle what can be a very overwhelming topic for most of us. The notion that our autonomy may be compromised by unforeseen circumstances—such as accidents, health conditions, or cognitive decline—is challenging to confront. This reality can leave us vulnerable, relying on the decisions of loved ones, government workers, and elected officials. Why relinquish control over your health and all that you have worked hard to achieve to someone else? Maintaining control and ensuring the ones you trust know and are equipped to carry out your wishes is made straightforward with the help of an experienced attorney.

But, where should you begin?

S – SIZE UP YOUR ESTATE

• Think about what you have built and what you own
• List your assets
• Don’t forget about liabilities

M – MAP OUT IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

• Locate key documents: Wills, Trusts, Deeds, and Insurance Policies

• Include Essential Records: marriage certificates, birth certificates, and military records

A- ASK THE RIGHT QUESTIONS

• Who should inherit your assets?
• Who will make decisions for you if you can’t

R- REVIEW WITH AN EXPERT

• Consult with our attorneys to make sure your plan is legally sound.
• Get advice on wills, trusts, powers of attorneys and ensure they are customized to YOUR situation.

T- TIME TO UPDATE

• Life changes and so should your estate plan.
• Revisit it regularly after major events like marriages, deaths, divorces, or changes in assets

Planning for the future is critical for us all to ensure our wishes are honored, our assets are protected, and that we receive the care we need and deserve. By being “S.M.A.R.T” and planning ahead, we can guarantee that we have the right legal documents and strategies in place to protect ourselves, our family, and our assets. By seeking legal advice from the experienced attorneys at White & Allen, P.A. you can trust that your plans are tailored to you and your individual circumstances.

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