Estate Planning
Estate Planning in Utah and
Why It Is Essential
Estate planning is more than just writing a will. It is about protecting your loved ones, preserving your assets, and ensuring your wishes are honored in the event of incapacity or death. Without a proper estate plan, decisions about your property, finances, and medical care may be left to the courts, creating unnecessary stress for your family.
At Porter Law Firm, we help individuals and families create customized estate plans that provide security, reduce legal complications, and safeguard their legacies. Whether you need to draft a will, establish a trust, or update an existing plan, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Key Estate Planning Tools
- Last Will and Testament – Outlines how your assets will be distributed, who will care for minor children, and names an executor to manage your estate.
- Trusts – Helps avoid probate, protect assets, and ensure a smooth transfer of wealth to beneficiaries. Revocable living trusts allow for flexibility, while irrevocable trusts can provide tax and asset protection benefits.
- Durable Powers of Attorney – Appoints a trusted person to manage your financial and legal affairs if you become unable to do so.
- Health Care Planning Tools – Allows you to designate a medical decision-maker and specify your health care preferences if you become incapacitated.
- Beneficiary Designations – Retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and payable-on-death accounts should be reviewed to ensure they align with your overall estate plan.
Proper estate planning not only protects your assets but also ensures that your family avoids unnecessary legal battles, financial hardships, and uncertainty.
Benefits of Estate Planning
- Avoids Probate – A properly structured estate plan helps your heirs avoid the costs and delays of probate court.
- Protects Minor Children – Allows you to appoint guardians for your children instead of leaving that decision to the courts.
- Minimizes Taxes and Expenses – Proper planning can reduce estate taxes and legal fees, preserving more of your wealth for your loved ones.
- Prevents Family Disputes – Clear instructions can help prevent legal battles and disagreements among family members.
- Ensures Your Wishes Are Followed – A well-drafted estate plan ensures your medical, financial, and personal preferences are legally recognized.
FAQs
What happens if I die without an estate plan in Utah?
Without a will or trust, Utah’s intestacy laws will determine how your assets are distributed, which may not align with your wishes.
Do I need a trust or is a will enough?
A will alone may not be enough, especially if you want to avoid probate or provide ongoing financial management for beneficiaries. Trusts offer additional protection and flexibility.
How often should I update my estate plan?
It is recommended to review and update your estate plan every few years or after major life events, such as marriage, divorce, having children, or acquiring significant assets.
Learn from the Experts
Our Blog
Why Every Utah Resident Needs an Estate Plan and How to Get Started
The Difference Between a Will and a Trust and Which One Is Right for You
How Estate Planning Can Protect Your Family From Probate and Legal Battles
Divorce case - I was in a hard spot with a firm that wasn't advocating for me and had already taken a huge chunk of my savings and equity from selling my marital home. I was heartbroken. I sent out a handful of new "contact us online" to different firms in Utah, and Jonathon Porter reached out to me almost instantly and we set up an in-person meeting. Less than a month after retaining Porter Law I already feel I am in better hands. I see the holes that were left open by my previous firm, and where Porter Law is picking up the pieces. They have been more proactive than the large firm I signed with from May - September. I wish I would have started here and saved my heartache and pocketbook from the beginning. If you are in a similar position, looking for new representation I highly suggest speaking with Jonathon. Even though my case is not complete, I truly look forward to working with Porter Law to until we are able to close this chapter. 12/26/2024 - UPDATE: From October when I first met with Porter Law I asked if we could get this done by the holidays and today I open up my email to see my divorce is FINAL and everything has concluded. I am so grateful to Porter Law and their diligence and communication that they had with me. My case wasn't rocket science, but felt like so from the other party. Jonathon and his staff kept things upbeat and positive and they got it done! Thank you Porter Law, you truly were a blessing during this time and I really wish I would have found you sooner!
Kindel P
January 23, 2025Jon and his crew were absolutely amazing with my divorce, they answered all my questions, walked me through the process, and were always friendly. I would and will recommend them to anyone who's looking for a good lawyer.
Susan Steffen
June 23, 2024Jonathan helped my brother in a custody case, he was fair, kind, and caring throughout the process. Jonathan and his team were so great to work with.
Sydnee Hammer
July 23, 2024At the recommendation of many women in a similar situation, I called Porter Law Firm. The consultation with Jonathan was my second (the first with a different firm). I was so glad I made the choice to go with them. Both Jonathan and his paralegal Cassidy made sure I always knew what was going on with my divorce/custody case and showed that they cared. They did a great job answering my questions and working with my requests. I hope I never have to use them again, but if I do, I know where I’m going! Heartfelt thanks to Porter Law Firm!
Megan W
March 23, 2023Jonathan and his team are seriously amazing! Jon has represented me in a few different legal matters over the years and I couldn't be more pleased every time. If you need an attorney that actually cares, communicates with you, fights for you and makes sure you understand everything that is going on- Jon literally is the best!
Amber VanDerWoude
December 23, 2024Jonathon helped my husband and I with a gestational agreement as we embark on the journey of surrogacy. He was kind and responded quickly to our questions. His staff members were supportive and took the time to answer all questions thoroughly. Jonathan was able to get our agreement validated in court and the judge praised how well the agreement was prepared. My husband and I recommend Jonathan without any reservation.
Kristen Porter
March 23, 2024Very helpful and patient really help me through a hard time
Austin Gambles
March 23, 2024He was absolutely amazing! He listened to all my concerns for my divorce and fought for everything I was pursuing. Definitely recommend for any legal needs!! His team was also awesome and very responsive.
Brickale Robinson
July 23, 2024Porter is a great attorney! I felt listened to and he always gave me options to get to where I wanted to go. He was professional and responsive. I highly recommend him.
jessica bendezu quispe
December 23, 2024Jonathan and his team are amazing. They helped me with my case. They were very professional and when I had a question they were quick to respond. I would definitely recommend them
Eder Nogueron
July 23, 2024
