Trusts and Estates Planning

Many people assume that estate planning is only for the ultra-wealthy. In reality, every individual and family—regardless of the size of their estate—can benefit from a thoughtful plan. Without one, state law dictates how your assets are distributed, and the result may not align with your wishes.

A well-structured estate plan can:

• Ensure your assets transfer smoothly to the people and organizations you choose.
• Reduce the time, expense, and stress of probate.
• Minimize estate and inheritance taxes.
• Protect minor children or dependents with special needs.
• Reduce the risk of disputes among heirs.

Estate planning also provides clarity during difficult times. For example, naming guardians for minor children or creating a trust for a child with special needs ensures your loved ones are cared for according to your wishes. Likewise, establishing powers of attorney and healthcare directives makes sure someone you trust can step in if you become incapacitated.

Put the Right Plan in Place.

Every client’s circumstances are unique, and no single strategy works for everyone. That’s why DarrowEverett attorneys build personalized plans using a wide range of proven tools:

Revocable and Irrevocable Trusts: Revocable trusts provide flexibility during your lifetime while helping your estate avoid probate. Irrevocable trusts can protect assets from creditors, reduce estate taxes, and ensure long-term wealth preservation.

Wills: A properly drafted will ensures your wishes are legally enforceable and prevents uncertainty about how your assets will be divided.

Powers of Attorney and Healthcare Directives: These essential documents appoint trusted individuals to handle financial and medical decisions on your behalf if you cannot do so yourself.

Wealth Transfer Strategies: From lifetime gifting programs to family limited partnerships, we help you pass wealth efficiently while reducing transfer taxes.

Business Succession Planning: For business owners, we design plans to ensure smooth transitions, whether to the next generation, trusted employees, or new owners.

Family Governance Planning: Beyond documents, we help families articulate shared values and build frameworks for decision-making that foster unity across generations.

By combining these tools strategically, we create estate plans that not only preserve wealth but also reflect each client’s vision for the future.

Estate planning is not a one-time event. Major life changes—marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, retirement, or the sale of a business—often require updates to ensure your plan remains effective. Tax laws and regulations also change frequently, which can impact how your estate is treated.

At DarrowEverett, we remain a long-term partner to our clients. We offer a legacy program that gives clients the opportunity to check in with our team after drafting your initial estate plan. This approach helps your plan stay up to date as your life, family, and priorities change.

Protect Your Legacy.

Holistic Perspective: Our attorneys integrate estate planning with tax, business, and asset protection strategies, ensuring your plan works across all aspects of your financial life.

Efficiency and Value: We deliver industry-leading counsel at competitive rates, making high-quality planning accessible to a wide range of clients.

Personalized Service: We know that estate planning is deeply personal. Our team listens closely, explains options clearly, and tailors strategies to fit your needs and values.

Collaborative Approach: We often work alongside financial advisors, accountants, and family offices to ensure a seamless, coordinated plan.