Best Estate Planning Lawyers in Pella

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Founded in 1936
55 people in their team
English
Dickinson, Mackaman, Tyler & Hagen, P.C. is a general practice law firm in Des Moines, Iowa. Our attorneys provide a full range of legal and business counseling services to a client base that includes large corporations, small businesses, governmental entities, and not-for-profit organizations...
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United States Estate Planning Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 2 legal questions about Estate Planning in United States and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

My husband passed away five years ago. We have a property in th Philippines and I would like to transfer everything to my child. We are now residing in California, as U.S. citizens and my late husband a Filipino citizen.c
Estate Planning
Civil & Human Rights
Probate
Hello:We are sorry to hear about the passing of your husband, and we extend our deepest condolences.Regarding your concern, since your husband was a Filipino citizen and you are now both U.S. citizens residing in California, the property transfer to your child in the Philippines can be lawfully facilitated under Philippine succession laws.Here are some important legal points and possible remedies:1. Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate (if there is no will)If your husband died intestate (without a will), and there are no other compulsory heirs aside from your child, you may execute an Extrajudicial Settlement of Estate with Waiver of Rights in favor of your child. This must be:Signed by you as the surviving spouse,Notarized and registered with the Registry of Deeds,Accompanied by a notarized Affidavit of Self-Adjudication or Waiver, if applicable.If the property is titled in your husband's name, the title must be transferred first to the estate, and then to your child.2. Judicial Settlement (if there is a dispute or complications)If:There are other legal heirs,There is no agreement on the partition,Or if a will exists that needs probate,Then a petition for judicial settlement must be filed before the Philippine court having jurisdiction over the property.3. Tax Clearance & Title TransferTo legally transfer the title, the following must also be secured:BIR Certificate Authorizing Registration (CAR),Estate tax clearance,Updated real property tax payments,Transfer of title with the Registry of Deeds.We recommend an initial consultation so we can properly review your husband’s death certificate, property documents, marriage certificate, and your child’s proof of identity. This way, we can assist you in completing all required steps without requiring you to travel to the Philippines.You may directly schedule and automatically get a Google Meet link using the link below:👉 https://calendar.app.google/MuALV3nLqedy9FCx6Our Contact Information:📧 Email: [email protected]📞 Phone/Viber/WhatsApp: 09175046510📍 Office: 5th Floor, Park Centrale Building, IT Park, Apas, Cebu City, 6000We look forward to helping you secure your child’s rightful inheritance.Best,Atty. Jofre RecososaOwner, Recososa Law Firm
How to protect property from squatters law
Estate Planning
Elder Law
Landlord & Tenant
After completing probate to establish yourself as the legal heir, you can transfer the property title to your name and then grant them permission to reside there through a formal agreement.It is worthy to note that you can do it through special attorney.

About Estate Planning Law in Pella, United States

Estate Planning Law in Pella, United States is a legal practice area that focuses on guiding individuals through the process of managing and disposing of their property during their lifetime and at and after death, in the most efficient way possible. This generally includes drafting wills, trusts, power of attorney, health care directives, and other planning documents.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Estate planning often involves complex issues and potentially confusing legal jargon. A qualified lawyer can offer expert advice about tailoring your estate plan to best meet your specific needs. This may be especially relevant if you have a large number of assets, a complex family situation, a business, or if you want to leave a legacy or reduce estate taxes. An estate planning lawyer can also help in administrating the estate after death or if a dispute arises over the stipulations of a will or trust.

Local Laws Overview

Specific estate planning laws often differ from state-to-state in the U.S. In Iowa where Pella is located, you must be 18 years or older and of 'sound mind' to make a will. Moreover, for wills to be valid in Iowa, they must be written, signed by the person making the will, and witnessed by at least two people. Iowa does not collect estate taxes or inheritance tax. However, federal estate tax may apply for estates exceeding certain thresholds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a will and why is it important?

A will is a legal document outlining how your assets will be distributed after your death. It is crucial to ensure your wishes are respected and to alleviate potential disputes among heirs.

2. Do I need to worry about estate taxes in Iowa?

No, Iowa does not collect either estate taxes or inheritance tax. However, federal estate tax may apply for high-value estates.

3. Can I make my own estate plan without a lawyer?

While it is possible, handling estate planning without professional legal guidance can lead to mistakes, omission of vital components, or a plan that does not adequately address your objectives.

4. What is probate and will my estate go through it?

Probate is a legal process where your will is reviewed, your debts and taxes are paid, and your assets are distributed according to your will. Not all estates go through probate, it depends on the types of assets and how they are owned.

5. What happens if I die without a will in Pella, Iowa?

If you die without a valid will, your estate is distributed according to Iowa's intestacy laws, which may not align with your desired allocation of assets.

Additional Resources

For more information about estate planning, you could explore resources such as the American Bar Association's guide to wills and estate planning, the Iowa Judicial Branch website, or consult with a local law library. Local non-profit organizations such as Iowa Legal Aid also offer free legal information on their websites.

Next Steps

If you decide to hire a lawyer for estate planning, research and make a list of prospective lawyers, prepare a list of questions, and arrange initial consultations. Remember to bring all relevant documents and information about your assets to your consultation.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Pella through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Estate Planning, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Pella, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.