Crafting a Comprehensive Estate Plan for a family is both customized personal in nature. Two families with identical estates, may have extremely different objectives. The key is to create a plan that is uniquely tailored to each family’s unique considerations. Here's a glimpse into our personalized process:

Step 1: Initial Conversation

In advance of an initial meeting, potential clients complete our Preliminary Data Questionnaire (PDQ). Whether with limited or complete data, our initial conversation allows us to provide a cost-benefit analysis based on the information provided.

Step 2: Engagement and Annual Contract

Once engaged through an annual contract, the next step is a “Money and Meaning” conversation, where we get to know and understand both the goals and objectives for wealth transfer. 

Step 3: Plan Design

Internally, we design a plan tailored to your unique goals, estate tax tolerance, and planning complexity.

Step 4: Estate Plan Presentation

We review assumptions, goals, and capacity for gifting. Using images and flow charts, we present a variety of options in a simple format, allowing our clients to evaluate each idea on one page.

Step 5: Build the Team

We assemble a well-rounded team, including a certified estate planning attorney, tax preparer, ­­consultant. This collaborative effort forms the foundational entities for the family’s estate and charitable goals.

Step 6: Implementation

Collaborating with a multi-disciplinary team, we bring the planning desires to fruition. Coordinating with an investment manager and CPA, we earmark assets for lifestyle needs, various entities, addressing both today's objectives and those for the next generation.

Step 7: Renewal

At the end of the year, we evaluate completed work and plan for the future. Planning is dynamic. Ongoing monitoring is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the entities forming the foundation of an estate plan.

Step 8: Family Retreats (Optional)

Family Retreats offer a unique opportunity to align families in estate and charitable goals. These dedicated sessions provide insights into a family’s financial picture, prior estate planning, and discussions on new ideas for enhancing wealth preservation. 

Click here for more information on our Family Retreats.