Probate

The death of a loved one is often difficult, but if you are in charge of the estate it can be even more stressful.  DiCara & Farris, LLC offers hands on support and representation to help you settle the estate.  We represent clients in all the local Probate Courts to make the process easier for you.

In addition to representing fiduciaries in estate matters, we regularly represent and counsel Trustees.  As part of their estate plan, more and more people are turning to Trusts as a vehicle for asset protection.  Being a Trustee can be overwhelming and confusing.  We are here to help guide you.

Have questions about your duties, obligations and liability as Conservator or as an agent under a Power of Attorney?  DiCara & Farris, LLC is here for you.

Wills & Estate Planning

It is never too early to prepare your estate plan. Life’s milestones may include the birth of a child or grandchild, a marriage, a divorce or an inheritance. Who will make decisions for you if you become ill or have an accident?  DiCara & Farris, LLC has many estate planning tools to help you secure your wishes for the future.  Some of the tools available are:
  • Last Will & Testament
    A Will contains your instructions on how your property and assets are distributed after your death. If you die without a valid will state laws determine how your assets are distributed.  The results may not be the same as what you had wished for.  An updated valid will protects your loved ones and ensures your wishes are carried out.
  • Power of Attorney 
    A power of attorney is a document that gives someone else the authority to make certain decisions and act on your behalf.
  • Living Will/Advanced Directives
    A living will is a document that states your wishes regarding life prolonging medical treatments.  Making these decisions now will avoid arguments when you and your family need to be supportive of each other.
  • Heath Care Agent 
    If you are unable to make medical decisions, you can designate someone to make them for you…
  • Funeral Plans and Anatomical Donations
    Your family may not know your feelings about these issues; or may not agree with you or each other.  Whether it is cremation, burial or donation for transplant purposes, make your wishes known.
  • Designation of Conservator
    It is important to know that if you become incapacitated in the future your finances and personal affairs will be managed by a trusted person you choose; your conservator.

Elder Law

As you or your parents’ age there are often difficult questions to answer. Should we transfer the house to the children? Should we set up a Trust? Medicaid, also known as Title XIX, is confusing and difficult to understand, it becomes even more so if a loved one is suddenly in a nursing home and the family is trying to figure out how to pay for long term care. DiCara & Farris, LLC is here to help you explore the options before it becomes a necessity, or when you are suddenly at that crisis moment.

DiCara & Farris, LLC works closely with you to find solutions based upon your financial situation and your family goals.  We will work with you on the following matters:

  • Medicaid (Title XIX) application process
  • Pre-Medicaid (Title XIX) planning
  • Asset preservation
  • Conservator applications
  • Estate Planning
  • Elder Mediation Services
  • Power of Attorney