For clients
Wills, trusts and probate
Papers that say who gets the house, the land and the truck, who decides for you if you can't, and who settles things after. Written so your family can read them.
Wills
Who receives what, who serves as personal representative, and who raises minor children.
Trusts
For land you want kept in one piece, a child who shouldn't get it all at once, or privacy.
Powers of attorney
Someone you trust to sign for you, for money and for health care, if you can't.
Probate
Opening the estate, notice to creditors, paying bills and transferring title after a death.
Guardianships
When an adult can no longer manage alone, or a child needs someone with legal say.
Beneficiary and title review
Checking that accounts, insurance and deeds say what your will says.
Signing day
From the first talk to the signed original
Arne listens first, then mails a draft in plain English. You read it at home and call with every question. Signing takes about an hour with two witnesses and a notary, at the office, your house or a hospital room. The signed original stays in the office safe; you take copies home.
Usually three steps
One conversation to start
A draft to mark up at the kitchen table
One signing, wherever you are
Asked about wills
Is a will enough, or do I need a trust?
For many families a will plus up-to-date beneficiary forms does the job. A trust earns its cost when there's land to keep together, property in two states, or an heir who needs a buffer.
What happens if my dad died without a will?
State law picks the heirs and the court appoints someone to settle things. It takes longer, and it can be done. Bring the death certificate and any deeds.
How long does probate take here?
A simple estate often closes in six months to a year. Land, a business or a family disagreement can stretch it.
What does it cost?
A will or plan is one price, quoted in writing at the first meeting. Probate is billed by the hour, and the estate usually pays it.
Get the papers in order
Call or write, and the office will set up a first conversation in town or by video.