Recently, residents have been planning ahead and getting their estate planning documents in order. Estate planning is an important process that can benefit anyone, regardless of their age, wealth, or family situation.

Some of the common estate planning documents are:

• Will: A document that states how you want your property and assets to be distributed after your death. It also names an executor who will carry out your instructions and a guardian who will care for your minor children, if any.
• Trust: A legal arrangement that allows you to transfer property and assets to a trustee, who will manage them for the benefit of your beneficiaries. Trusts can help you avoid probate, reduce taxes, and protect your privacy.
• Power of attorney: A document that grants someone else the authority to act on your behalf in financial and legal matters, if you become incapacitated or unable to make decisions for yourself.
• Living will: A document that expresses your preferences for medical care and end-of-life treatment, if you become terminally ill or permanently unconscious. It also names a health care agent who will make decisions for you, based on your wishes.

To create a comprehensive estate plan, you should consult with an estate planning attorney who can advise you on the best options for your situation. You should also review and update your estate plan regularly, especially after major life events, such as marriage, divorce, birth, death, or inheritance.

Fellow residents have retained the services of Deb Bess Urbaitis of Courteous Law.   Email: courteouslaw@gmail.com. Phone 603-428-3838. 45 Gould Street, Henniker Courteous Law is a general practice law firm that specializes in estate planning, business and family law. It is located in Henniker, New Hampshire, and is run by Attorney Deb Bess Urbaitis, who has been admitted to the New Hampshire Bar since 2002. She is also a member of the American Bar Association and the Henniker School Board.