What Does My Estate Include?

Your estate is simply everything you own, including bank accounts, real estate, retirement accounts, life insurance policies and personal possessions.

Who Should Have A Will?

Wills are not only for the elderly or the wealthy. Any adult with assets can benefit from having a will. For those with minor children, having a will is especially important. By establishing a will, you can rest assured that your assets will be distributed in the manner of your choosing, and your minor children will be placed in trusted hands in the event you are no longer able to care for them.

What Happens When A Person Dies Without A Will?

When a person dies without a will, their wealth and assets are distributed in accordance with Montana intestate succession law. The law is rigid and does not take into account the personal wishes of the decedent or family dynamics. No special provisions are made for types of property and the desire of heirs to possess them — all property is treated the same. If a parent of minor children dies without a will, a court will appoint a guardian to care for the children. A court’s decision in regard to property and guardianship may be far from your true desires. This is why it is so important to take the step of creating a will.

 What Is A Power Of Attorney?

A power of attorney is a written document that gives one person the authority to act in place of another person, in the event the second person can no longer make those decisions for himself or herself. Power of attorney is broadly categorized into medical and financial powers of attorney.

To learn how the law applies in your specific situation, please contact our law offices online or by telephone at 406-206-4827.