What are the different types of estate planning documents?

Estate planning documents are used to help ensure your wishes are carried out in the event of your death or incapacity. In West Virginia, there are a variety of documents that can be used as part of a comprehensive estate plan. The most important document is the Last Will and Testament. This document allows you to designate who will receive your property when you die, as well as how they will receive it. You can also name guardians for minor children, or set up a trust to manage their inheritance. A second important document is the Durable Power of Attorney. This document allows you to designate someone to manage your financial affairs if you become incapacitated. The document must be signed by an attorney and must specify who has the power of attorney and what that person’s powers are. Third, a Living Will allows you to provide instructions regarding medical treatments — such as those for terminal illnesses — that you would or would not want. Fourth, a Revocable Living Trust allows you to manage your assets during life and designate how the assets will be distributed upon death. Trusts also have the added benefit of avoiding probate. Finally, a Health Care Proxy allows you to designate someone to make medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated. These documents are critical to a comprehensive estate plan. Consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney in West Virginia can help ensure you get the documents you need.

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What are the different types of estate planning documents?

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