Do I need a will? Where should I keep my will? What does it cost to prepare an estate plan? Why shouldn’t I use an on-line service to set up my new business? What does it cost to form a new business?

Do I need a will? Anyone who has dependents or any assets needs a will. The will names an executor who carries out your instructions for disposition of your assets upon your death. In addition your will names a guardian to care for any minor children. If you do not have a will in place the court will decide who takes care of your children. Top of Page

Where should I keep my will? Your executor, guardian and your attorney should know where you keep your will. If you keep your documents at home you should keep them in a fire proof safe. Your fire proof safe should include your insurance policies, passports, tax returns and any legal documents that you filed with your lawyer and a list of accounts and things in your safe deposit box. Your lawyer should have a copy of your will any medical directives and powers of attorneys plus burial instructions and trusts. Safe deposit boxes are good places to keep your legal documents such as: wills, deeds and titles, marriage licenses, divorce decrees, birth certificates, stock certificates, home inventories, social security cards, lists of bank and brokerage accounts, certificates of deposits. Top of Page

What does it cost to prepare an estate plan? The cost of an estate plan varies with each individual's circumstances.Your initial consultation is free. You will be given a very accurate estimate of the fees to complete your estate plan at the time of your consulation. Top of Page

Why shouldn’t I use an on-line service to set up my new business? The old adage you get what you pay for applies here. While on-line services might obtain you a certificate of formation from the secretary of state they rarely address the legal issues that are particular to your situation. The forms used are often cookie cutter documents that have not been legally reviewed – often times many important documents are missing altogether and unfortunately most people do not find out until it is too late. The process of forming a business involves more than just filing documents with the state. Many issues must be considered when determining the proper entity for a new business including; intellectual property rights, tax treatment, asset protection, business succession planning, employment law, securities regulations and insurance. Obtaining the proper documentation from an attorney and addressing these important issues at the outset can prevent future problems. Top of Page

What does it cost to form a new business? The cost for forming a limited liability company or corporation varies depending on the number of shareholders, members or partners. Simple businesses involving only one person can be completed for under $1,000. Businesses with 2 people cost a little more. More complex business arrangements with multiple shareholders, members or partners will be charged by the hour. Your initial consultation is free. You will be given a very accurate estimate of the fees to start your business at the time of your consulation. Additional information on documentation such as shareholder agreements, employment contracts, trademark applications and buy-sell agreements will be provided at that time. Top of Page