Estate Planning
Secure Your Future, Protect Your Legacy
North Carolina Estate Planning Tailored to Your Life and Legacy
Planning for the future isn’t just about protecting your assets—it’s about ensuring your wishes are honored and your loved ones are cared for. At Tarantino Law, we offer compassionate and comprehensive estate planning services tailored to meet your unique needs. Whether you're creating a will, establishing a trust, or designating powers of attorney, our team will guide you every step of the way to provide peace of mind and lasting security.
Wills
A will is the foundation of any estate plan, ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes. We’ll help you draft a legally sound document that reflects your intentions and protects your loved ones.
Trusts
Trusts are powerful tools to manage your assets, minimize taxes, and avoid probate. We’ll guide you in creating a trust that aligns with your financial goals and family’s needs.
Power of Attorney
A power of attorney designates someone you trust to handle your financial matters if you’re unable to do so. We’ll ensure this critical document is customized to your specific preferences.
Health Care Power of Attorney
A health care power of attorney gives a trusted individual the authority to make medical decisions on your behalf. We’ll help you plan for the unexpected with a document that reflects your values and wishes.
Get the Answers You Need to Plan with Confidence
FAQs About Estate Planning
What does estate planning include beyond just writing a will?
A comprehensive estate plan often includes more than a will—it can include living trusts, durable power of attorney documents, medical power of attorney, and beneficiary designations for bank accounts, life insurance proceeds, and retirement accounts. At Tarantino Law, PLLC, we tailor these tools to reflect your wishes, provide clarity for your loved ones, and protect your estate from unnecessary taxes and delays.
How much does estate planning cost in North Carolina?
Estate planning fees vary depending on the complexity of your needs. While simple wills may cost less, comprehensive planning involving revocable living trusts, tax exemption strategies, and provisions for minor children may involve a higher investment. We are transparent about estate planning attorney fees, helping you understand what to expect and why each part of your plan matters.
What's the difference between estate planning and will preparation?
A will is a single document that outlines who receives your real estate and personal property upon death. Estate planning, on the other hand, encompasses a broader strategy, including the appointment of guardians, health care directives, financial power of attorney, and strategies to reduce estate taxes or avoid probate. We help you choose what’s right for your family’s future.
Is estate planning different for wealthy individuals or those with international assets?
Yes—estate planning for wealthy individuals and those with foreign property requires special attention. Topics like the federal estate tax, gift tax, and international estate planning come into play. Our firm is experienced in developing strategies to protect high-value estates, using advanced tools such as survivorship life insurance policies and trust structures.
How do you handle estate planning for blended families or complex situations?
Estate planning for blended families requires careful coordination to ensure beneficiary designations align with your intentions and to minimize conflict. We help address these complexities and offer solutions through estate planning binders, family meetings, and ongoing support for changing needs.
What's involved in North Carolina-specific estate planning?
Each state has unique laws affecting estate plan documents. North Carolina-specific planning addresses things like health care directives, power of attorney recognition, and real estate titling. Our team stays updated on state specific estate planning laws and helps clients navigate all local requirements.
How can an estate planning lawyer help protect minors and children?
We guide clients through naming guardians, setting up trusts, and managing life insurance proceeds to ensure minors and children are supported if something happens to a parent. Our approach integrates legal protections with financial planning for long-term stability.
Does Tarantino Law work with financial advisors or planners?
Yes—estate planning works best when coordinated with your financial planner. We collaborate with other professionals to create aligned strategies that protect your legacy, preserve assets, and keep your loved ones informed and secure.