Unique Estate Law is a progressive estate planning practice serving clients in Minnetonka, Minnesota. We understand the unique needs of individuals, families, and the LGBTQ+ community and help them achieve their estate planning objectives. Whether you need to create a will or a trust, you can depend on us to tailor your plan to your needs and goals.
Our firm is gay-owned and operated and dedicated to providing our clients and the communities we serve with compassionate representation and caring, efficient service. Once you become our client, you will have peace of mind knowing that you have taken steps to protect your assets and your loved ones. Contact us today to speak with an experienced estate planning attorney.
Why Minnetonka Residents Need An Estate Plan
Some people believe they don’t need an estate plan because they are single, have no children, or have few assets. At Unique Estate Law, we believe that estate planning is for everyone, regardless of their family or financial status. We work with clients to create essential estate planning documents, such as
- Will – This estate planning document establishes how your assets will be distributed after you pass, designates a guardian for your minor children, and may provide for their care through a testamentary trust.
- Durable power of attorney – This legal document designates a trusted person such as a family member, close relative, or associate to act as your agent to manage your business affairs if you become temporarily or permanently incapacitated due to illness or injury.
- Advance directive for health care – Also known as a healthcare proxy, this document allows you to appoint a healthcare representative to make decisions about your medical care if you cannot make decisions due to incapacity.
- Revocable living trust – A revocable living trust avoids probate by taking ownership of your property while allowing you to continue managing it during your lifetime.
You can trust our legal team to tailor your plan to your unique needs and advise you about all your estate planning options.
What Is A Guardianship?
A guardianship is a legal arrangement that places an individual under the supervision of a guardian or custodian, whether a family member, a close friend, or a court-appointed fiduciary.
It is possible to establish guardianship over a minor without a parental guardian or an adult who is mentally incapacitated or disabled and no longer capable of making decisions about their person or property. There are two types of guardianship — guardianship of the person and guardianship of the estate:
Guardianship of the Person
The guardian oversees the protected person’s (the ward’s) care and welfare and has the authority to decide where the ward will live, what medical care they will receive, and what measures should be taken for their end-of-life care. A guardian must also maintain the ward’s autonomy to the extent possible.
Guardianship of the Estate or Property
Guardianship of the estate is necessary when an incapacitated adult has not established an estate plan. The guardian is authorized to make financial decisions on behalf of the ward, including managing bank accounts and investments and paying bills and expenses such as rent or a mortgage. Guardianship for an adult is often a temporary arrangement to protect the ward until they regain capacity.
The guardianship lawyers at Unique Estate Law will work closely with you to ensure your loved one’s interests and well-being are protected.
Minnetonka Probate Attorney
Being named executor of a loved one’s estate is an honor, but navigating the probate process can be challenging. That makes working with an experienced probate attorney essential. What happens if a loved one dies without a will (“intestate”)? A family member must petition the probate court to be appointed the estate administrator. At Unique Estate Law, we advise executors and estate administrators on their duties.
Minnetonka LGBTQ Adoption Attorney
Minnesota recognizes and permits LGBTQ adoption. However, same-sex couples and LGBTQ+ individuals face unique challenges with the adoption process. Suppose you are in a same-sex marriage, not biologically related to your child, and have not adopted them. You will not have parental rights in the event of separation or divorce and may also face obstacles with obtaining guardianship if your spouse becomes incapacitated or passes away.
Formally adopting your child will protect your parental rights and your family. You can depend on our legal team to assist with adoption proceedings, completing legal paperwork, and representing you in family court. We will also help prepare estate planning documents, such as a will and power of attorney, to ensure your child is protected if either parent passes away.
Contact Our Experienced Minnetonka, Minnesota Estate Planning Attorney
At Unique Estate Law, we are committed to providing you with quality legal representation and helping you plan your financial future. Contact our office today to get started with an experienced estate planning attorney.