Nash Bean Ford & Brown, LLP provides legal services in the practice areas of elder law, estate planning, and wills and trusts to clients in central and western Illinois and Eastern Iowa.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nash Bean Ford & Brown, LLP
Do I really need a lawyer to create a Will?
It is tempting in today’s electronic age to rely on forms found on the internet when it comes time to create your Last Will and Testament. However, doing so greatly increases the odds of litigation when it comes time to probate your estate. Ultimately, the time and money you may save by going the DIY route will likely end up costing your loved ones considerably more time and money down the road. In addition, using a DIY form to create your Will can result in unintended consequences given the fact that an attorney will not be part of the creation of the document. At Nash Bean Ford & Brown, LLP, we build your estate plan to fit your needs and goals rather than squeezing you into an online, one size fits all form
Do I really need an estate plan at my age?
Although most people acknowledge the need for an estate plan – eventually – those same people frequently operate under the belief that they don’t need a plan yet. The rationale behind this belief is that you do not need an estate plan until you have amassed a valuable estate and/or until you have a family. The truth, however, is that every adult can benefit from an estate plan. You want to be the one to decide what happens to your assets in the event of your death. More importantly, the estate plans at Nash Bean Ford & Brown, LLP includes documents that let you choose who has access to your health care information and who makes the decisions about your property and health care if you are incapacitated.
What should I include in my estate plan?
Estate planning is a highly personal endeavor. Just as no two people are the same, no two estate plans are exactly the same. As such, there are no basic requirements for an estate plan. There are, however, some common components found in most plans, such as:
• Last Will and Testament
• Living Trust
• Advanced directives (Living Will and Health Care Power of Attorney)
• Durable Power of Attorney
• Incapacity planning
• Funeral and burial plan
• Retirement planning
• Medicaid planning
We at Nash Bean Ford & Brown, LLP encourage clients to include a written or video-taped record of their memories and values as an enduring legacy for their family.
Once I have an estate plan, I don’t have to do it again, do I?
Creating an estate plan is important; failing to review and revise that plan can be worse than not having a plan in the first place. There are no hard and fast rules for how often a routine review should take place. We at Nash Bean Ford & Brown, LLP advise you to review your plan every three to five years during your working years and then every five to seven years thereafter. In addition, certain life events call for an immediate revision of your plan, such as a divorce, death, move to another state, or major change in assets.
What are your fees/How much does estate planning cost?
We at Nash Bean Ford & Brown, LLP share our fees at our free workshops in the context of the planning options available. We will quote you an exact fee when you come in for your Personal Consultation with an attorney once we understand your situation and goals. We are an all-inclusive flat fee law firm. We do not charge hourly for services such as emails and phone calls with attorneys and staff for estate planning.
Do I really need a lawyer to create a Will?
Using a lawyer ensures your Will is tailored to your needs, reducing litigation risks and unintended consequences from DIY forms. Nash Bean Ford & Brown, LLP crafts estate plans fitting your goals rather than generic templates.
Why should I have an estate plan regardless of my age?
Every adult benefits from an estate plan to control asset distribution and designate healthcare decision-makers if incapacitated. Nash Bean Ford & Brown, LLP helps you secure that control.
What components should I include in my estate plan?
Common elements include a Last Will and Testament, Living Trust, advanced healthcare directives, durable power of attorney, incapacity planning, funeral plan, retirement planning, and Medicaid planning. Personalized legacies like recorded memories are also encouraged.
How often should I review my estate plan?
Review every 3–5 years during working years and every 5–7 years afterward, or sooner after life events such as divorce, relocation, or major asset changes.
What are your fees for estate planning services?
We offer an all-inclusive flat fee shared during our free workshops. Exact fees are provided after a Personal Consultation, with no hourly charges for emails or calls.
What are your office hours?
Open Monday to Thursday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and Friday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Closed on weekends.
Which payment methods are accepted?
We accept American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, Invoice, MasterCard, and Visa.
Is your office accessible to individuals with disabilities?
Yes, we offer wheelchair accessible parking, seating, and restrooms, including unisex restrooms, ensuring accessibility for all clients.
Do you require appointments, and can I book online?
Appointments are required, and online appointment scheduling is available for your convenience.
What nearby places can help me find or complement my visit to Nash Bean Ford & Brown, LLP?
Nearby insurance agencies like Midwest Insurance Group and Ruth Lammers Insurance can complement your estate planning. After your visit, you might enjoy a session at Results Body Sculpting, LLC or dining at local venues near 38th Ave in Moline.
Are there nearby transportation options to reach Nash Bean Ford & Brown, LLP?
Local taxi services such as QC Cabs operate nearby, providing convenient transportation to and from our office on 38th Ave.
Are there any nearby businesses where I can handle related financial or legal matters?
Yes, adjacent businesses like Edward Jones Financial Advisor Casey J Fry and Vanderginst Law P.C. offer financial and legal services that may be helpful alongside your estate planning at Nash Bean Ford & Brown, LLP.