Estate Planning Lawyer In Northern Virginia

Everyone needs an estate plan. Whether you are a young professional starting on your own, a growing family moving into your first home or retiring from work, you need to prepare for the future. Protecting your assets and laying out your wishes is an important step everyone must take.

At the Law Office of Krista L. Newton PLLC, we strongly believe all of these things, and we take active steps to help individuals, families and business owners create strong, unique estate plans that don’t just plan for the future; they protect a legacy too. We also provide compassionate probate assistance when families need it most. When you work with our experienced, compassionate attorney, Krista Newton, you will feel guided and informed from start to finish, and she works to create a personalized estate plan that makes sense for you, your family and your situation.

Comprehensive Estate Planning Services In Northern Virginia

Whether you have an estate plan already and need a keen eye to review and update things, or you’re just starting out, the Law Office of Krista L. Newton PLLC has your back. For years now, we have helped countless individuals at every stage of life create their perfect estate plan, including:

• Establishing wills and trusts
• Creating living wills and advance medical directives
• Outlining and establishing durable powers of attorney
• Establishing guardianships
• Creating transfer on death deeds
• Guiding families through the probate process

Ms. Newton will work with you personally to help you create a plan that achieves your goals, communicates your wishes and protects your assets. When we are finished, you will have peace of mind knowing everything is in order, and your loved ones will know exactly what to do.

Your Estate Planning Answered

Planning for your future and handling a loved one’s estate both involve important decisions and important legal processes. Estate planning and probate matters often raise questions, and we believe you deserve clear, straightforward answers. Below, we answer the most common questions we hear from clients throughout northern Virginia. If you do not see your specific question addressed below, we welcome you to reach out directly.

What is the difference between a will and a trust?

A will is a legal document that outlines how you want to distribute your assets after you pass away and only takes effect after your death. A trust, on the other hand, is a legal arrangement that involves a trustee managing your assets for your loved ones and can take effect during your lifetime. Wills become public record during probate, while trusts stay private and help your family bypass the court process. A trust also allows you to control exactly how and when your family receives your assets, which helps if you have young children or unique family needs. Many find value in having both a will and a trust as part of their complete plan.

Who should have a durable power of attorney or medical directive?

Every adult should have a durable power of attorney (POA) and medical directive as part of their basic planning, regardless of age or health status. A durable POA allows someone you trust to handle your financial matters if you cannot make decisions for yourself. Meanwhile, a medical directive guides your health care choices when you become incapacitated. Both documents protect you during unexpected situations, such as accidents or sudden illness, and give your loved ones clear guidance during stressful times.

Can I update my estate plan if my circumstances change?

Yes, you can and should update your estate plan after every significant change that occurs in your life. This can be marriage, divorce, having children, buying property and when tax laws change. We encourage our clients to review their estate plans every three to five years to make sure they still reflect their wishes and current situation.

How do transfer-on-death deeds work in Virginia?

Transfer-on-death deeds pass your Virginia real estate directly to your chosen beneficiaries without having to go through probate court. While you are alive, you keep full ownership and control of your property, with the right to sell it or cancel the deed anytime. When you pass away, the property transfers automatically to your named beneficiaries, who simply file your death certificate and a form with the county.

Get Started

It is never too early nor too late to begin planning for the future. If you are ready to take control of your future and your affairs, schedule an initial consultation with Ms. Newton today by calling 571-659-4186. You can also send an email to get started.

We serve clients throughout Prince William County, Arlington County and the surrounding areas.