Ed Shaw Law - No Nonsense Legal Advice
Call 800-507-0352 To Schedule A Consultation
Call
800-507-0352
To Schedule A Consultation
Offices in St. Cloud and Brainerd, serving all surrounding areas
Coronavirus Impact and Assurance: Yes! We are still open for business!

For the last year, thanks to the hard work of all of our staff, and you, our clients, no one who works at this office has gotten Covid while working here, and we have not spread a single case to any of our clients, while getting all of our client's legal needs taken care of. With the spread of vaccination the end is in sight, normal times where we can meet our clients in person in the office are just around the corner.

During the transition we will be having some in person, in office appointments for clients who have already been vaccinated, and for whom the CDC recommended period of time has passed since their last shot. Of course, for anyone who would prefer a phone or video appointment for safety, convenience, or any other reason those types of appointments are always available.

For our clients who have not yet completed the vaccination cycle phone and video appointments are of course available, and, with the return of warm weather we will again be offering outside appointments under the tent right outside our front door. For all appointments, masks will continue to be required.

Through the transition safety of all staff and clients will continue to be our top priority, we look forward to seeing you soon.

Please see our blog for more info on pandemic response.

Local Solutions
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The Importance Of A Will In Minnesota

You may think that just because you are not independently wealthy you do not need a will. Sometimes people are under the impression that only older people need a will.

The truth is that if you own a home, are married, have children or have a full-time job with a 401(k) or IRA, you can benefit from a will. A well-crafted will can make the probate process faster and less expensive. At Ed Shaw Law, we work with people all over the Brainerd area to create wills and estate plans.

Why Parents Need A Will

If you have children, a will can ensure that the custody of your children will go to the person or people whom you and your spouse choose. If you don’t have a will, you leave this to chance and the state will decide who raises your children. The last thing you want is for your child or children to end up in foster care.

A will can also ensure the financial stability of your children, should the unthinkable happen to you. A trust can be set up through a will to pay for their education or for future use. A will is often the first step in estate planning.

Four Top Reasons Why You Should Have A Will

A will sets down your wishes on paper. This means that your family doesn’t have to guess or fight over what they think you would have wanted.

But there are other benefits that a will offers. These benefits include:

  • Minimized estate taxes. Estate taxes due after your death can decrease what’s left to give to your family.
  • Clear directions as to “who gets what.” This ensures only the people you choose will inherit from you. It is especially important to make a new will if you have divorced.
  • A will allows you to leave money to charities or organizations that held meaning for you during your lifetime.
  • A will lets you designate an executor. This means you get to decide who takes care of things after you die.

The Role Of An Executor In Minnesota

An executor’s job is to make sure your affairs are in order. This person will make sure your outstanding bills get paid, your credit cards get canceled and make sure the people you designate to inherit items from your estate get them. An executor does not have to be a family member. They can be a close friend or someone in your life whom you trust to carry out your wishes. When deciding on an executor, pick someone who is organized, world-wise and honest.

Work With A Seasoned Estate Planning Professional

Talk with an experienced estate planning attorney about getting a will. Call Ed Shaw Law at 218-825-7030. Or, send us a message online, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Our estate planning services are accessible and affordable. We accept all major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, Discover and Amex. 10% Military/Veteran Discount (exclusions apply). We have offices in both Brainerd and St. Cloud for your convenience, and work with clients throughout the surrounding areas of Minnesota.