Wills & Estates

A good estate plan is a selfless act of paperwork that protects the ones you care about in many ways: emotionally, relationally, and financially. Cromwell Law’s intake forms and Limited Scope services make estate planning easy and affordable. We listen carefully to your goals, explain pertinent Montana laws, and draft a comprehensive plan to include the intricacies of both your personal and professional life.

What is an estate plan?  

An estate plan is more than just a will. It is a group of documents that identifies where you want your money, property, and other assets to go should the unexpected or unthinkable occur. It ensures that you are able to give loved ones possessions that carry high emotional value; perhaps a wedding dress, a family heirloom that’s been passed down, or hard-won military medals. It specifies who you trust to handle your affairs and personal care if you become sick or disabled. And finally, it gives you peace of mind by appointing trusted individuals to take care of children or dependents with special needs if you are no longer able.

A full estate plan is a group of documents that work together and usually includes a will, a financial power of attorney, a health care power of attorney (advanced directive), a living will (declaration), and sometimes testamentary or inter vivos (living) trusts.

Do I really need an estate plan?  

Yes. Every adult in Montana over the age of 18 should have an estate plan, whether you are married or single, with or without children, and regardless of economic status. An estate plan speaks for you if you can no longer speak for yourself. Without an estate plan, the State of Montana (by default) decides how your assets are distributed — also called intestacy. This process can be time-consuming, costly, and distressing. Without an estate plan, you also lose control over choosing who handles your affairs and personal care in the event you become sick or disabled.

A well-formed estate plan safeguards the value of your assets, minimizes taxes, avoids legal fees, and helps you establish a thoughtful strategy for taking care of yourself, your finances, and your family. If you would like to learn a little more about the estate planning process and documents before speaking with an attorney, Montana State University provides terrific resources here.

Your life is unique. Cromwell Law helps you generate an estate plan that reflects you. Our collaborative process ensures your peace of mind: that your distinctive stewardship will continue into the future as a thoughtful legacy and precious gift to those most important to you.