Taking the Mystery out of Estate Planning

About the Book

Thinking about your death isn’t easy, but it’s even harder to consider the consequences of not thinking about it. Failing to execute a will or set up a trust could burden your heirs beyond just grief at your passing, leaving them to deal with your incomplete affairs as well.

Stephen L. Smith, a longtime attorney with thirty-five years of experience in estate planning, seeks to take the mystery out of what can often be an intimidating process. Using this guide, you can learn how to

• understand the differences between wills and trusts;
• evaluate attorneys and tax advisers;
• empower yourself to direct the planning process; and
• maximize the money and assets that get passed to others.

Whether you have a large estate or a modest one, it’s important to engage in estate planning to make your wishes known. Take control of the process by arming yourself with the knowledge in Taking the Mystery out of Estate Planning.

About the Author

Stephen L. Smith has spent more than thirty years in tax planning. He practices law with Horack, Talley, Pharr and Lowndes, P.A., where he has been a partner for more than twenty-five years. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from UNC–Chapel Hill and attended the University of Virginia Law School. He has addressed numerous business and industry groups on tax subjects. He is also the author of IRA and 401(k) Investment in Real Estate for Syndicators, Other Real Estate Professionals and the Rest of Us.