Wills and estates
Wills, trusts and estates for the people you leave behind
A plan that says who gets what, who decides for you if you can't, and who settles things after. Written to be read by your family, not just by a judge.
Wills
Who receives your home, land and belongings, and who looks after minor children.
Trusts
For land you want kept together, a child who needs help managing money, or privacy.
Powers of attorney
Someone you trust to handle money and property if you can't.
Health care directives
Your wishes for medical care, and who speaks for you at the hospital.
Probate
Settling an estate after a death: the court filings, the notices, the final accounting.
Beneficiary review
Checking that accounts, policies and deeds pass the way your will says.
Signing day
How a plan comes together
Ruth meets with you once to listen, and sends a draft in plain language. You read it at home, call with questions, and come back to sign with two witnesses and a notary from our office. We keep the signed original in our vault and give you copies.
It usually takes
One first meeting, at the office or your kitchen table
A draft to read at home
One signing visit, about an hour
Common questions
Do I need a trust, or is a will enough?
For many people a will and a few beneficiary forms are enough. A trust can help with land, privacy or a child who needs help with money. We'll tell you which fits.
How much does a will cost?
Most wills and simple plans are a flat fee, quoted in writing at the first meeting. Probate is usually billed by the hour.
What if someone dies without a will?
State law decides who inherits, and a court appoints someone to settle the estate. We can still help the family through it.
Can you come to a hospital or care home?
Yes. We make visits in town and nearby when someone can't come to the office.
Start a plan with Ruth
Call the office or send a short note. We'll set up a first meeting.