Questions families ask

A will says who receives your property and who is in charge after you die, and it usually goes through probate. A trust holds property while you're alive and can pass it on without probate. Many people need only a will; some families are better served by a trust. We'll explain which might suit yours.

North Carolina law decides who inherits, and the Clerk of Superior Court appoints someone to settle the estate. It still works, but it may not match what the person would have wanted.

It names someone to make medical decisions for you if you can't make them yourself. It's often signed alongside a living will, which records your wishes about care at the end of life.

Not always. What matters is whether your parent can understand what they're signing at the time. Clare will meet with them to see, and explain the other options if planning documents aren't possible.

It depends on the estate. North Carolina requires a waiting period for creditors to come forward, so even a simple estate usually stays open for several months. We'll give you a realistic picture after we've seen what's involved.

No, you can decline. If you accept, you'll have duties to the estate and the people who inherit. We can explain what the role involves before you decide.

Not all. Accounts with a named beneficiary, jointly owned property and assets held in a trust often pass outside probate. Part of our work is sorting out which is which.

Planning work is usually a flat fee, quoted in writing after the first meeting. Estate administration may be hourly or flat, and we explain which before you decide.

Most conversations can happen by video or phone. If someone can't come in for signing, ask us about other arrangements.

Please wait until we've spoken. Until we've agreed to work together, send only your contact details and a short note about what it concerns.