Your Estate Plan is Personal
We work closely with our clients to understand their unique circumstances and goals, and we provide personalized advice and recommendations to ensure their wishes are carried out. Our attorneys can also assist with the probate process, helping to ensure that your estate is settled in a timely and efficient manner. At Etheridge, Hamlett & Murray, LLP, we are committed to providing compassionate, effective legal representation to help our clients plan for the future and protect their loved ones.
A Will Is a Vital Legal Tool
Having a will is important for several reasons. First, a will allows you to specify how your assets will be distributed after your death. This can help avoid confusion or disputes among family members. Second, a will allows you to name an executor to manage your estate and carry out your wishes. Third, if you have minor children, a will allows you to name a guardian to care for them in the event of your death.
Without a will, the court will appoint a guardian based on its own judgment, which may not be in line with your wishes. Finally, having a will can make the probate process smoother and less stressful for your loved ones. Overall, a will is an essential tool for ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and that your loved ones are taken care of after your death.
Powers of Attorney & More
A Power of Attorney is a legal document that grants an individual the authority to act on behalf of another person in legal and financial matters. This appointed individual, known as the agent or attorney-in-fact, is entrusted to make decisions and take actions as specified in the document.
Healthcare Powers of Attorney
A healthcare power of attorney allows an individual (the principal) to appoint someone else (the agent or proxy) to make healthcare decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated or unable to communicate. This appointed agent has the authority to make medical decisions, such as treatment options and procedures, in accordance with the principal's wishes and best interests. Healthcare powers of attorney are crucial in ensuring that one's healthcare preferences are respected and followed when unable to make decisions for themselves.
Partition of Property
In North Carolina, a partition of property refers to the legal process of dividing jointly owned real estate among co-owners. When co-owners cannot agree on how to manage or divide the property, they can seek a partition action through the court. This legal process allows for the physical division of the property or, if that is not feasible, a sale of the property with the proceeds divided among the owners. North Carolina law provides guidelines on how the partition should be carried out to ensure a fair and equitable distribution of the property rights among the co-owners.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our estate planning and probate services. Call (252) 459-9000.