What types of assets should I consider when creating an estate plan?
As a lawyer, when creating an estate plan, you should consider all of your assets, both tangible and intangible. Tangible assets include things like real estate, vehicles, and personal property such as jewelry, art, and furniture. Intangible assets include things like bank accounts, investment accounts, retirement accounts, business interests, and intellectual property.
It is important to identify and value all such assets accurately, as this information will be used to create a plan for their distribution upon your death. For particularly complex or valuable assets, it may be necessary to hire an appraiser or other expert to determine their value.
Additionally, it is important to consider any debts or liabilities that you may have, as these may impact the distribution of your assets. For example, if you have outstanding debts or obligations, creditors may be entitled to certain assets in satisfaction of those obligations.
When considering your estate plan, it is also important to keep in mind any relevant laws or regulations that may impact the distribution of your assets. For example, in many jurisdictions, there are certain requirements that must be met in order for a will to be considered valid.
In order to ensure that your estate plan is comprehensive and effective, it may be useful to work with an experienced estate planning attorney. They can provide guidance on asset protection, tax planning, and other related issues, as well as help you navigate any relevant legal requirements in your jurisdiction.