Meridian Estate Planning Attorney

We are Leaders in Estate Planning in Meridian, ID

At Johnson May, our Meridian estate planning lawyers are compassionate, experienced, and solutions-focused representatives for people and families. Our team can help you find peace and security with a comprehensive estate plan that you can truly rely on. If you have any questions or concerns about estate planning, we are here as a legal resource. Contact us today for a fully confidential meeting with a top-rated Idaho estate planning lawyer. 

Why You Need an Estate Plan

Every adult in Ada County should have a comprehensive estate plan in place. An estate plan gives you control over what happens to your assets, your health care, and your family’s future. In Idaho, failing to plan means state intestacy laws decide how property is distributed, often against personal wishes. Proper planning can also go a long way towards reducing the risk of your family or other loved ones being confused or worse, locked in a serious dispute. If you have any questions about estate planning, our Meridian estate planning lawyer is here to help. 

An Overview of Our Estate Planning Services in Meridian, ID

We believe that comprehensive, personalized estate planning should be accessible to all people and families in Meridian. Our team will take the time to sit down with you, hear your story, answer your questions, and help you develop a plan of action that actually meets your needs. Along with other estate planning matters in Meridian, we have experience with: 

• Wills: A will directs how your property is distributed after death. Idaho law requires a valid will to be in writing, signed, and witnessed. Without one, state intestacy rules control distribution. We will draft a customized will that effectively protects your rights and expresses your wishes. 
• Trusts: Trusts are not just useful for the very wealthy. They can be effective estate planning tools for many families in Idaho. Our Meridian estate planning lawyers handle all types of trusts, including revocable living trusts, irrevocable trusts, and special needs trusts. 
• Power of Attorney: A power of attorney authorizes someone to act on your behalf. In Idaho, durable powers remain effective even if you become incapacitated. They are essential for managing finances or health care decisions.
• Living Will: A living will expresses your medical treatment preferences if you cannot communicate. Idaho recognizes advance directives under Idaho Code § 39-4510. The document ensures doctors and family follow your wishes.

How the Meridian Estate Planning Lawyers at Johnson May Can Help

Estate planning can be stressful and complicated. At Johnson May, we are here to walk you and your family through every step of the estate planning process so that you know all of the available information. We make a promise to our clients to provide personalized advocacy. When you contact our office in Ada County, you will have a chance to consult with a Meridian estate planning lawyer who can: 

• Listen to what you have to say and answer your estate planning questions; 
• Help you gather and prepare all supporting documents and records; 
• Handle all of your estate planning paperwork; and
• Develop an estate planning strategy that is best suited for your situation. 

Estate Planning in Meridian: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a will if I already have a trust?

Yes. Every adult in Meridian should have a will. Even if you are largely planning to rely on trusts as your estate planning tool, a will still serves as a safety net. It ensures any assets not in the trust are distributed properly. In fact, a “pour-over” will can be used to transfer assets into a trust.

Can I update my estate plan?

Absolutely. You can and should update your estate plan. Life changes and your estate plan should change with it. Updates are recommended after major life events. Marriage, divorce, or having children may require changes. It is best to review your estate plan on a periodic basis. Our Meridian estate planning lawyer can help you make changes as needed. 

Are powers of attorney recognized after death in Idaho?

No, a power of attorney ends upon death. There are no exceptions. When a person dies, the authority to manage the estate then shifts to the court-appointed personal representative. Most often, that will be the executor as named in their will. To be clear, the same person who had POA can potentially serve as the role of the executor as well. 

Contact Our Meridian Estate Planning Attorney Today

At Johnson May, our Meridian estate planning lawyers put clients first. If you have any questions or concerns about estate planning, we can help. Give us a call now or contact us directly online to set up your confidential initial meeting. We provide estate planning services in Meridian, Ada County, and throughout the region in Idaho.