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P. Mars Scott PLLC | Law Offices
P. Mars Scott PLLC | Law Offices

Call Us 406-303-2142

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Reliable And Compassionate Guidance In Estate Planning And Probate

For more than 40 years, P. Mars Scott Law Offices has been providing skilled estate planning and probate services to clients in Missoula and the surrounding areas of Montana. These can be difficult matters to discuss, which is why many people put off estate planning. But with the help of an experienced and caring attorney, planning your estate is easier and faster than you might expect.

What Should Be Included In Your Estate Plan?

Each estate plan should be customized to the individual, but most estate plans will contain similar documents/legal instruments. Common ones include:

  • A last will and testament: This lists your property and intended heirs. You’ll want to designate an estate executor to ensure that the terms of your will are carried out. If you have minor children, you can also use your will to name a guardian for them (in case of your untimely death).
  • One or more trusts: These are powerful legal instruments that give you considerable control over how, when, to whom and under what circumstances your assets are distributed. They can also be used to reduce estate taxes and simplify probate, among other advantages.
  • Designation of durable power of attorney (POA): If you ever become incapacitated and unable to make or communicate important decisions, a trusted individual with power of attorney can make these decisions on your behalf. You can designate POA for financial and health care decisions.
  • A living will: This document states your wishes for end-of-life medical care (or refusal of such care) in the event that you become incapacitated and unable to make or communicate your wishes. Having a living will can spare your loved ones from making very difficult decisions on your behalf.

Our attorneys will help you determine which estate planning documents/instruments are right for you and guide you through the creation of each document.

Representation In Montana Probate

Many people engage in estate planning with the goal of simplifying probate or avoiding it altogether. This is sometimes possible, but not always. If you’ve been named as the executor of a loved one’s estate, our attorneys can provide skilled and compassionate legal guidance during this difficult time.

If the estate is small enough, we may be able to take advantage of Montana’s simplified probate process. Even if the estate requires full probate, however, we can handle most of the process on your behalf, leaving you free to focus on taking care of yourself and your family members.

Reach Out Today To Get Started

P. Mars Scott Law Offices proudly serves clients in and around Missoula, Montana. If you’d like to discuss your estate planning or probate options with a knowledgeable attorney, contact us to schedule an initial consultation. You can send us an email or call 406-303-2142.