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
Jonathan & Stephanie have been so AMAZINGLY good to me & my family. So kind hearted & very patient, their communication is great. Very kindhearted & gets the business done. I am truly honored. THANK YOU!
Gina Barnes
November 23, 2024Porter Law was amazing! Helped me with some custody stuff and actually had my back. Jon and his staff are fantastic!
Cody Vine
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, 2023I recently needed some help with a court issue. Jonathan was immediate and got all my questions answered and walked me through everything I needed. He he very kind, and professional. I recommend him and will use his services again.
Melissa Watkins
May 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, 2024Like some of us we find ourselves needing assistance when dealing with family obstacles. I fortunately found Jonathon Porter and couldn’t be more happy with the results we have obtained. We have an amazing line of communication and full transparency of what could be the possible outcomes. I couldn’t ask for a better attorney for my family’s situation. He listens and makes sure your voice is heard.
Christoph Samek
February 23, 2025Jonathan 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, 2024Was an amazing help, answered all my questions and concerns very quickly and easy to understand!
harli trussell
February 23, 2025Jonathan and Cassidy are so amazing. They helped me out so much going through my divorce. I went through a divorce for almost 6 years. I used 2 previous lawyers that were terrible and I wish I hadn't ever used. I found Porter Law Firm and they were so awesome to work with. They were able to navigate my case and get it completely done where others couldn't come close. I was always able to reach someone about issues or questions I needed answers to. They respond super quickly which was great because things change from day to day specially in a messy divorce. I recommend Porter Law Firm to everyone for any of your Law needs.
Dustin Porter
March 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
