In the absence of good Estate Planning, loved ones likely face probate court in order to handle an estate upon death. Dealing with death is difficult enough, but probate adds the unnecessary strain of significant financial costs. For instance, the law states that the Personal Representative and/or Attorney necessary to handle probate receive 4% of the first $100,000, 3% of the next $100,000, 2% of the next $800,000 (and so on) out of your Estate. Simply put, an Estate valued at $300,000 at time of death could be hit with $18,000 payable to the PR and Attorney who processes the probate (plus court/notice costs). And beneficiaries must wait six months or more before the court distributes the Estate. Proper Estate Planning avoids probate. Call or visit me online to review your Estate Planning options. This initial meeting is free of charge. Get going today, and start your new year off with peace of mind.