Alabama Estate Planning Attorney

Tailored strategies to protect your assets, family, and peace of mind against unforeseen circumstances.

Bama Estate Planning is committed to guiding you through planning for life’s unpredictable moments.

What if something happened to you?

Everyone owns assets, which means you have an estate. It’s not just about significant bank accounts or properties; it includes everything you own—from your car to cherished family heirlooms. But where does that leave you if life takes an unforeseen turn and you aren’t prepared?

Without an estate plan, Alabama has its system for distributing your assets, which likely won’t align with your or your family’s preferences. Even with a will, preventing your loved ones from facing legal battles and disputes after you’re gone may not be sufficient. Is this a risk you’re prepared to take?

At Bama Estate Planning, we offer a personalized planning process that is inclusive of all. We start by understanding your family dynamics, wishes, and values. Estate planning isn’t just for a specific group—it’s essential for everyone, particularly those you leave behind. We value your unique circumstances and are committed to creating a plan that reflects your individual needs.

Contact us at (256) 216-9884 hmitchell@harlanmitchell.com to get started today.

What should be included in my Estate Plan?

Consider your Estate Plan as a comprehensive toolkit for your life’s legacy, filled with various tools for different purposes, all organized into one complete package. Depending on your unique needs and goals, we can assist in crafting the perfect estate plan tailored for you.

Here’s an overview of what is typically included in an estate plan:

Start planning your estate today to ensure your legacy is handled according to your wishes. The sooner you start, the more control you’ll have over your legacy. We can assist you in crafting the perfect estate plan. Here’s a glimpse of what an estate plan typically includes:

1. Will

Your will is more than just a document. It’s a detailed roadmap that guides the distribution of your belongings—from cherished books to family heirlooms—after you’re gone. It also outlines the steps for managing your possessions and designates guardians for any minor children.

2. Trust

A trust acts like a fortress, safeguarding your assets from creditors, legal disputes, Medicaid claims, and unwelcome relatives. It can help bypass the lengthy probate process, providing a secure shield for your assets.

3. Beneficiary Designations

This lets you take control of who will receive assets like retirement accounts, life insurance policies, or bank savings. These assets are transferred promptly and directly to your beneficiaries, putting you in the driver’s seat and avoiding probate.

4. Medical Power of Attorney

This document lets you appoint someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you cannot do so, ensuring your medical preferences are honored.

5. Financial Power of Attorney

Similar to the Medical Power of Attorney but concerning financial matters, this allows you to designate someone to manage your financial affairs if you are incapacitated.

6. Advance Directive for Health Care

This enables you to express your preferences for medical treatment and appoint a representative to make healthcare decisions for you, ensuring your wishes are followed.

How should I create my estate plan?

At Bama Estate Planning, we understand that every estate plan is unique. That’s why our process begins with a crucial step-the Legal Life Planning Session. This confidential session, which you can schedule with us, is the foundation of your estate plan. Once you’ve set your appointment, we’ll provide all the necessary materials to help you prepare for our meeting.

During our session, we’ll consider essential questions, such as:

We’ll discuss the potential solutions and outline our transparent pricing model. By the end of our meeting, you’ll have the guidance to make informed decisions about your estate plan, ensuring your assets are secure and your family’s future is well-protected.

Call (256) 216-9884 or email hmitchell@harlanmitchell.com

Estate planning is far more than allocating money; it's about creating a lasting legacy

It involves preserving and passing on the intangible gifts that define who you are—your values, insights, stories, and life experiences. Our distinctive approach ensures that your legacy is captured and shared with those you cherish most. Here's what it entails:

Security for Your Future

In an emergency that prevents you from making financial or medical decisions, your estate plan acts as your voice, providing you with peace of mind that your wishes will be respected and followed.

Security for Your Belongings

Whether you have specific items you want certain individuals to receive, an estate plan ensures that your belongings are distributed according to your wishes, preventing disputes.

Security for Your Family

An estate plan is a shield that protects your children’s inheritance from creditors, legal challenges, undesired family claims, and governmental involvement, ensuring their financial security.

Eliminating Probate

An expertly designed estate plan can completely avoid the probate process, maintain confidentiality, and spare your family the time and stress during a difficult time.

Bama Estate Planning with Harlan D Mitchell, Attorney at Law

We build relationships and create solutions that stand the test of time.

Wills, Trusts, Power of Attorney, Health Care Directives, Child Guardianship Planning

We help Alabama residents with Elder Law & Long-Term Care, Wills and Trusts, Estate Planning, Estate Planning for Minor Children, , Disability & Incapacity Planning, and Probate & Trust Administration.

Call (256) 216-9884 or email hmitchell@harlanmitchell.com