Service
WV Estate Planning Attorney
Compassionate, Effective Estate Planning in WV
Kelly Crites is a WV estate planning attorney who will help you put a plan in place that protects your family and allows you to not just Rest in Peace, but avoid being Robbed in Probate and Relieved in Prosperity.
We get it: estate planning doesn’t seem fun to think about! But we consistently hear we make it as easy as possible, and it feels so good afterward. Plus, if you don’t think about it now, the state has a plan for you, and you probably won’t like it.
Our role is to make sure your family isn’t left with a mess, but with a plan you choose—and to use the planning process itself to create more connection for you with the people you love. Because ultimately, Life & Legacy Planning is something you do for the people you love.
After meeting with Kelly, you’ll have complete peace of mind and a clear plan tailored to your family and assets, all within your desired budget.
Using Trusts in a WV Estate Plan
Most people associate estate planning with wills and directives and may think trusts are a tool only for those with substantial wealth. The truth is, a trust can be a highly effective instrument for estate planning in WV, allowing families with various levels of wealth to preserve and pass down assets.
In addition to general trusts that hold assets and property for the benefit of designated beneficiaries, some families will benefit from trusts with more specific intentions.
Special Needs Trusts and Planning
Families of people with disabilities have particular concerns about protecting their loved ones and ensuring they are cared for throughout their lives. Special needs trusts can provide the resources and care they need. There are also additional steps that should be taken in the estate planning process for the protection and care of your loved ones with disabilities.
Pet Trusts
Pets are like family to many people, but they are considered property under the law. If you want to ensure your pet or pets are adopted by someone specific and that person has the resources and instructions to care for them as you would, a WV pet trust can do just that.
Gun Trusts
Hunting and shooting sports are deep-rooted in West Virginia’s culture. Many families own legacy firearms they wish to pass on to their loved ones. Gun trusts provide a means to transfer these heritage items with protections and features a typical will does not.
What to Expect in Your Legal and Tax Planning Session
First Session
The first step in our estate planning process is an in-person introductory session during which we will get acquainted and discuss your circumstances and areas of concern. Kelly will make recommendations and design a personalized plan to meet your goals.
Second Session
In our second session, we will review all elements of your plan and related documentation. Kelly will answer any remaining questions you have, plans will be finalized, and the necessary documents will be signed. This session is typically done virtually.
Third Session
Your third session with us will again be in person. We will deliver a binder with your original, executed documents as well as electronic files. We will also discuss future planning and arrange to meet again, usually in either one or three years, to check the status of your plan and assets, review for necessary changes, and update the plan and documentation as needed.
Contact Your Petersburg, WV Estate Planning Attorney
At The Law Office of Kelly S. Crites, we strive to make WV estate planning meaningful, easy, and effective.
You don’t need to put off estate planning any longer. Contact Petersburg, WV estate planning attorney Kelly Crites by calling (304) 257-9181 or completing this online contact form to schedule a consultation or learn more.