As a Georgia estate planning attorney, I see firsthand the importance of having a will in place. It's a document that grants you peace of mind, knowing your wishes for your assets will be carried out after you're gone. That's why a recent survey finding that only 32% of Americans have a will is truly concerning.

When there is a clear need for guardianship, and it is justified due to a person’s health or abilities, these tools are critically important. While there are abuses of the system in some areas, there are many ways that these legal tools protect a person’s long-term quality of life.

Your teen's 18th birthday might bring mixed emotions—you may feel a touch of sadness witnessing their growth while also swelling with pride over their achievements. It marks their official transition into adulthood. If you haven't already, it's crucial to protect your teen by ensuring they understand the essential legal documents they need to protect themself, as well as how to manage them effectively.

When seeking a conservatorship and/or guardian, working with a qualified attorney is best. While you can submit the paperwork independently, the court process may be difficult to navigate alone. Even with legal assistance, you can face challenges establishing a conservatorship. Here are some FAQs about adult guardianships in Georgia

Unfortunately, when someone passes away without an estate plan, this leaves their loved ones confused and can sometimes lead to fighting with the state and each other. Speaking to a Georgia estate planning attorney is ideal to avoid these outcomes.

There are many ways to do good during the holiday season. For some, that involves donating to a charity. What if you want to donate in a bigger way, perhaps support a charity that means a great deal to you? A charitable trust could be one of the most effective ways to do that. At Smith Taire Legal, we can help you establish a Georgia charitable trust that allows you to give in a way that’s meaningful to you.

Estate planning is more than just a legal process; it's a profound expression of love and gratitude towards your family and those you hold dear. By having a thoughtful estate plan in place, you are ensuring that you can care for and provide for the people in your life no matter what.

By gaining insight into the available Georgia trusts and their distinct advantages, individuals and families can forge a path toward a secure and well-considered estate plan. Our Georgia estate planning attorneys will help you explore some of the most common trusts, their different benefits, and why having a trust is essential for your Georgia estate plan. 

Regarding the complex process of crafting a will, some common missteps can greatly impact an estate plan. By removing these pitfalls, you can prevent costly snags and create a reliable estate plan that properly safeguards your legacy.

National Estate Planning Week. Running from October 17th to October 23rd, this dedicated week is the perfect time for individuals to take stock of their assets, evaluate their financial goals, and put a comprehensive estate plan into motion.

Moments of clarity, shifts in personal relationships, or unforeseen events can lead us down different paths, prompting us to reevaluate our priorities and future. Regarding estate planning, these aspects of life may lead us to review, update, and sometimes revoke important documents such as powers of attorney

Estate planning is a deeply personal process reflecting our principles and familial bonds. Yet, for some, the definition of family transcends bloodlines, expanding to encompass cherished friends who have impacted our lives. Regarding Georgia estate planning, a common question often emerges: Can I leave my estate to non-family members?

Did you know August is National Make a Will Month, making it an ideal time to think about the future and make important estate planning decisions.

Our Georgia Estate Planning Law Firm celebrates back to school by providing you with an August special, preparing your Power of Attorney and Advance Directive documents for your college students or college-aged students for only $199.

Finding love again is something that everyone deserves to find. However, if you have an estate plan in place or you are looking to do an estate plan shortly, there are certain things you should consider.

Probate is a common occurrence when finalizing someone’s estate in Georgia. However, not everyone clearly understands what probate is or how the long process lasts.

Receiving a personal injury settlement can provide much-needed financial relief after an accident or injury. Because personal injury settlements often involve significant amounts of money, consulting with legal experts is vital to ensure that any money received will be protected.

If you are experiencing financial hardship, this is an especially smart time to address your financial issues and restructure how you manage your assets and finances.

An experienced estate planning attorney can help you avoid mistakes and help you manage your estate. Avoiding common mistakes can make things much easier on your loved ones after you die as they work towards meeting your final wishes and dividing your assets.

Although it’s a difficult conversation, privacy and fully understanding someone’s wishes are essential among close family members. It is essential to have an uncomfortable conversation about estate planning sooner rather than later so everyone in the family is on the same page.