Estate planning
is essential because it establishes guidelines for the distribution of your debts and assets after your death. Issues discussed with an estate planning lawyer include your last will and testament, living wills, pet trusts, special needs trusts, probate, and powers of attorney, should you become mentally or physically incapacitated and unable to make decisions regarding your healthcare. Most estate planning attorneys charge sliding scale legal fees for these services, meaning how much they charge is usually proportional to your estate’s gross value.