PANZA

Our own passing or that of a loved one can be a frightening, painful and stressful experience. Planning ahead, so that one's wishes can be properly remembered and followed, removes the urgency of making difficult decisions during a very emotional time.

At the Panza Law Office, we will customize an estate plan that suits your needs and your budget.  Some common documents we prepare include:

• Last Will & Testament: describes how your estate will be distributed after you pass away

• General Power of Attorney: allows your representative to manage all of your property-based and financial affairs

• Advanced Directive (Living Will): spells out medical treatments you would and would not want to be used to keep you alive, as well as your preferences for other typical medical decisions

• Healthcare Power of Attorney: names another person, called a “health care agent,” to make health care decisions for you when you are not able to make those decisions for yourself

• Trust: a legal vehicle that allows a third party—a "trustee"—to hold and direct assets in a trust fund on behalf of a beneficiary

• Life Estate: a type of joint ownership that allows a person to live in a residence until his or her death, when it then passes to the other owner, helping avoid probate and passing a house to heirs without giving up the right to live there

• HIPAA Release Form: authorizes an appointed person or entity access to your health information  

The administration of an estate after a loved one passes away requires careful management. Decisions with financial implications—difficult at any point—must be made during a time of grief. Let us take away some of the burden and help manage the administration of your loved one's estate.  We will effectively handle the affairs with professionalism and compassion, walking with you through this process.

In the event that someone you care about is ailing and has not prepared an estate plan, we can help.  A guardianship is appointed through court intervention in order to help your loved ones when they are no longer able to help themselves.  Our guidance through these procedures will enable you to make decisions in their best interest.