Knowledgeable North Carolina Estate Planning Lawyer Protects Your Family and Legacy

Compassionate assistance with wills and powers of attorney

At The Henderson Firm, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, we know that an estate plan can provide great peace of mind to Cumberland County residents. When you have a plan for the future of your assets that takes into consideration your family’s circumstances and needs, it makes it easier to think about what will happen if you become incapacitated or when you pass on. We use our vast knowledge of the probate code and estate law to draft customized estate planning documents, including wills, living wills and powers of attorney, for our clients. We will meet with you and help you determine your estate planning goals so that your wishes are properly documented.

Using last wills and testaments to communicate your wishes

In your last will and testament, you can appoint a guardian to care for your minor children and name an executor who will be responsible for administering your estate and distributing your property. North Carolina law recognizes these types of wills:

• Typewritten wills — Most wills in North Carolina are typewritten and signed by the testator. These wills must be witnessed by two individuals who are 18 years of age or older.
• Holographic wills — North Carolina law recognizes a will that is completely handwritten and signed by the testator.
• Nuncupative wills — These wills are oral and are usually made when a person is dying. This type of will only allows for the disposition of personal property and has no effect on real property.

Working with an experienced estate planning lawyer can ensure that your will adheres to your wishes and the applicable laws.

Honoring your wishes through a comprehensive living will

A living will is an advance directive that provides instructions to medical providers if you are no longer able to do so regarding:

• Life-sustaining measures
• Artificial hydration
• Artificial nutrition
• Palliative care
• Following instructions from a health care agent

If you encounter a medical crisis, having a living will in place can provide clarity for your loved ones during a difficult time. Our firm can prepare your living will according to your values and wishes.

Safeguarding your property with a power of attorney

A power of attorney is a document in which you name an agent to be responsible for your finances. This flexible document grants only the powers that you specify and goes into effect when you want it to, such as when you are out of the country or if you become incapacitated. Our firm can ensure that your document properly reflects the authority and parameters you want to grant with this legal tool.

Contact a knowledgeable Fayetteville lawyer for help with your estate plan.

The Henderson Firm, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, can help you with estate planning documents that clearly spell out your wishes if you become incapacitated or at the time of your passing. Call us at 910-745-6148 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.