Five Prep Steps to Creating a Will

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Creating a will is the cornerstone of estate planning in Denver CO – it distributes your property as well as names a guardian for your children and executor for your estate. If you take these five steps before meeting with an estate attorney and drafting a will, the process will be much smoother.

1. Evaluate your net worth

Make a list of your assets, including your home, vehicles, retirement plans, business interests, jewelry and other personal property. Your net worth also includes the death benefit on all of your life insurance policies. Even though life insurance does not have to pass through probate, it does count as part of your taxable estate. List your liabilities – including your mortgage, vehicle loans, credit card debt and any money owed. Your net worth is the total of your liabilities subtracted from the total value of your assets.

2. Choose a guardian for minor children

This step can stop many parents in their tracks, for it is difficult to imagine their children being raised by someone else. Talk with your selected guardians about your choice and make sure they are willing and able to take on the challenge of raising of your children. You should also name a backup choice should the original choice be unwilling or unable to take on the responsibility.

3. Choose an executor for your estate

An executor is responsible for carrying out your wishes and other administrative duties for your estate. The executor may be a spouse, family member or trusted friend, but it can also be an institution or professional. You should also choose a ‘backup’ executor should your first choice be unwilling or unable to carry out the duties.

4. Determine how you would like your property distributed, as well as any donations you would like to make.

Property is distributed to the named beneficiaries in a will when the debts of the estate are paid off.

5. Contact an estate planning attorney to sit down and determine the best way to carry out your wishes while addressing issues such as estate taxes and avoiding probate.

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Our Practice Areas in Colorado Springs and Denver

At Hammond Law Group, we focus on helping Colorado families build strong, forward-looking estate plans that protect assets and preserve family harmony.

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Getting Started Has Never Been Easier — Attend a Workshop or Webinar

At Hammond Law Group, we believe that the foundation of good estate planning lies in knowledge and understanding. Our approach starts with education. Join our highly informative workshop on wills, trusts, estate planning, and more, where we provide you with comprehensive information to get you started in designing your personalized plan.

By attending our workshop or webinar, you not only … exclusive offer of a complimentary consultation with an experienced attorney
(a $500-750 value).

Our workshops fill up quickly so reserve your seat today.

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Your Experienced Estate Planning & Elder Law Advisors

We have a team-centered approach. While each client’s family works with one attorney, our attorneys regularly discuss the design of our plans with each other in order to ensure we’re doing everything possible to help you meet your goals.

In addition, each client works primarily with one paralegal, who gets to know you and your estate plan intimately through the design and
implementation process. The biggest complaint people have about
lawyers is lack of communication, and by working as a team we have
virtually eliminated this complaint for our clients.

Learn more about our family and then let us learn more about yours.

Meet Hammond Law Group Team

At Hammond Law Group, our estate planning attorneys work together to create meaningful, lasting estate plans for Colorado families. Each member of our team shares a commitment to personal connection, clear communication, and compassionate service.