Wisconsin Trust & Estate Planning Attorneys

Estate planning isn't just for the wealthy. It's an important process for everyone, regardless of the size of your estate, to make sure your assets are managed according to your wishes and your loved ones are cared for in the event of illness, incapacity, or death. Planning for the future can feel intimidating, but a strong, established plan can streamline your care, reduce uncertainty, and help those you care about make informed decisions.

At SB Law, our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping individuals and families develop comprehensive estate planning strategies. Whether you're looking to draft your first will, set up a trust, or plan for long-term care, we provide the compassionate guidance and skilled representation you need to reinforce your wishes and provide for your loved ones.

With offices in Manitowoc and Sheboygan, Wisconsin, we serve clients throughout the Lakeshore area. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you explore your estate planning options.

An Overview of Estate Planning in Wisconsin

Drafting an estate plan requires more than simply filling out forms. It’s a highly personal process that should reflect your individual goals, family dynamics, and financial situation. Wisconsin has unique probate and property laws, which can help you determine how you want your estate to be distributed. The key Wisconsin estate planning laws you should be aware of include:

• Community property provisions for marital assets: Wisconsin is one of nine states with community property laws, meaning that any assets acquired during marriage are considered jointly owned by both spouses. This can impact how marital property is divided in the event of a divorce or death.

• Single probate process: In Wisconsin, all assets are subject to probate unless they pass through joint tenancy, beneficiary designation, or a trust. However, the probate process in Wisconsin tends to be less complex and costly than in other states.

• Transfer-on-death provisions: For many assets, you can name beneficiaries who will directly inherit them without having to go through probate court. This option is often more efficient and cost-effective than traditional estate settlement processes.

• Augmented estate provisions: If you’re married, this provision entitles your surviving spouse to receive a significant portion of your estate, even if they were not explicitly included in your will.

Without a valid estate plan, your assets, whether large or small, will be distributed according to Wisconsin’s intestacy laws. This may mean your wishes, such as supporting specific relatives or charities, may not be honored. At SB Law, our role is to help you take control of your legacy by documenting your goals and simplifying decision-making for your loved ones.

Our Trust & Estate Planning Services

At SB Law, we have years of combined experience in providing comprehensive trust and estate planning services. Our attorneys will listen to your story and tailor our services to meet your needs and wishes for your estate. Our primary trust and estate planning services include:

• Will drafting: A will is the foundational document of any estate plan. It designates who will inherit your assets, care for your minor children, and manage your estate. We can help you prepare a legally sound will that aligns with your objectives and Wisconsin law.

• Revocable and irrevocable trusts: Trusts offer flexibility for managing and distributing assets, with advantages such as probate avoidance, asset protection, and tax savings. We will work with you to create trusts that meet your needs, whether to secure your family legacy, protect beneficiaries, or plan for long-term healthcare costs.

• Powers of attorney and advance directives: Planning for potential incapacity is just as important as planning for what happens after you pass away. Our attorneys can help you establish a durable financial power of attorney, a healthcare power of attorney, and a living will to make sure your preferences are legally enforceable.

• Medicaid and medical planning: With rising healthcare costs in the United States, it's important to plan for long-term care. Our attorneys will guide you through your options, such as establishing Medicaid trusts, and help develop asset preservation strategies to help prepare for future medical care without jeopardizing your financial stability.

• Charitable and legacy planning: If you are keen to support a specific cause or leave a charitable legacy, we can help you structure your estate plan to fulfill those goals in a tax-efficient way. Whether through donations, charitable trusts, or endowments, we can develop strategies that sustain your generosity.

• Probate and trust administration: When you pass away, your estate will be required to go through probate. We can assist with document preparation and court representation, asset administration and distribution, income tax planning, and estate tax returns.

Creating an estate plan goes far beyond just drafting a will. By establishing a comprehensive suite of documents, including trusts and powers of attorney, you can better provide for your family and beneficiaries and reduce complicated decision-making in the event of your incapacity or passing.

How Our Estate Planning Attorneys Can Help

Life is unpredictable, and without proper planning, your family could face expensive court proceedings, avoidable tax burdens, or unnecessary delays. Estate planning serves as a vital means of protecting those who rely on you.

For parents with minor children, planning is critical for appointing guardians and securing funds for education or other needs. For elders or those with disabilities, a trust or structured care plan can provide long-term protection against financial abuse or insufficient care. Even young adults benefit from establishing documents, such as healthcare proxies, that allow trusted individuals to make medical decisions on their behalf in emergencies.

At SB Law, we take time to explain Wisconsin's estate planning laws and how they apply to your circumstances. From establishing provisions to provide for your children’s financial security to minimizing probate and streamlining asset distribution, we provide the tools and experience you need to create a plan that fits your life.

Plan Your Future Today With Our Wisconsin Estate Planning Attorneys

At SB Law, we understand that discussing estate plans can be an emotional and often complicated process. That’s why we are committed to providing compassionate, thorough guidance as you make these important decisions for yourself and your loved ones. Whether you’re looking to update an existing plan or create a new one from scratch, we can help you explore your best options.

With offices in Manitowoc and Sheboygan, Wisconsin, we serve clients throughout the Lakeshore area, including Ozaukee County, Calumet County, Fond du Law County, Kewaunee County, and Door County. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can help you create a customized estate plan.