Estate planning typically involves in-depth communication between our clients and Ward and Smith's experienced estate planning attorneys. In this time of uncertainty, however, we've had requests for more immediate, basic estate planning documents that can cover the most essential estate planning needs quickly.
To address this immediate need, we have developed the "Essentials Package" to help people get their basic affairs in order.
The "Essentials Package" is a suite of five key estate planning documents that every adult North Carolinian should have, easily developed with one of our attorneys via video conference.
"With the COVID-19 pandemic, now more than ever, there's a critical need for everyone to have these essential documents in place," stated Matt Thompson, a North Carolina Board-Certified Specialist in Estate Planning and Probate Law. "Our new service allows people who have no plan in place, from the comfort of their homes, to plan for their assets and loved ones while ensuring their wishes are carried out in the unfortunate event of serious illness, injury, or death. While the package isn't a replacement for our normal processes for people with complex needs, we think it can help get the 'basics' in place during this extraordinary time."
The Essentials Package consists of a Last Will and Testament, a Durable Power of Attorney, a Health Care Power of Attorney, a Living Will, and a HIPAA Authorization. North Carolinians who need these essential documents will access a proprietary online platform to submit information for use in their estate planning documents. The Essentials Package includes one 30-minute video conference with one of the firm's experienced trusts and estates attorneys to review and answer questions about the documents. If needed, Ward and Smith can also help get the documents signed and notarized.
For more information on the Essentials Package, including where to register, fees, and what's not included, visit the Essentials Package page. For more information on our estate planning practice beyond the basics, visit our Trusts + Estates page.
