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Missoula Estate Planning Attorneys For Every Stage Of Life
Planning Today For Peace Of Mind Tomorrow
Planning for the future provides peace of mind today. Our Missoula estate planning attorneys help individuals and families across Western Montana protect what they have built and make sure their wishes are honored. From simple wills to trusts and more advanced strategies, Bulman, Jones & Cook tailors each estate plan to your life, your family, and your goals.
Core Estate Planning Documents That Matter
Most Montana families start with a few essential documents that work together. A will directs who receives your property, can name
guardians for minor children, and can coordinate with your other planning tools. Trusts can help manage assets during your life, keep certain matters private, and reduce how much must pass through probate. Financial and health care powers of attorney name trusted decision makers if you cannot act for yourself, and advance health care directives let you share your wishes for medical treatment so loved ones are not left guessing.
Why Estate Planning Matters In Montana
Without an estate plan, Montana law decides who inherits and who makes decisions if you become incapacitated. That default scheme may not reflect blended families, stepchildren, unmarried partners, or charitable goals. A clear plan can reduce the time and cost of probate, minimize conflict among relatives, and help protect assets for a spouse or children who remain in Missoula, Hamilton, Polson, Plains, or Thompson Falls.
How Our Estate Planning Process Works
We begin with a conversation about your family, property, and what keeps you up at night. Then our attorneys recommend a practical mix of tools, whether that is a stand alone will, a revocable living trust, or a more complex plan that coordinates business interests and real estate. Bulman, Jones & Cook drafts the documents in plain language, walks you through every provision, and handles the signing, witnessing, and notarization so your plan is complete and enforceable.
Planning For Every Season Of Life
Estate planning is not just for retirees in the Bitterroot or along Flathead Lake. Young adults benefit from powers of attorney and basic wills, especially if they own homes, have savings, or are starting families. Mid life clients often focus on guardianship provisions, life insurance coordination, and protecting growing assets, while seniors look toward smooth transitions, minimizing paperwork for children, and coordinating with long term care and Medicaid planning.
Estate Planning FAQs In Montana
How much does an estate plan cost?
Costs depend on how many documents you need and how complex your situation is. A straightforward will package with powers of attorney is usually a flat fee, while trust based planning takes more time and detail. We explain options and pricing in advance so you can choose the level of planning that fits your family.
What is the difference between a will and a trust?
A will directs what happens to assets that are in your name alone and generally must go through probate. A trust can own assets during your life, provide instructions if you become incapacitated, and pass property directly to beneficiaries without going through the full court process. Trusts can also provide extra structure for younger beneficiaries or those who need help managing money.
Do I need to worry about estate taxes?
For many Montana families, federal estate tax is not a concern because the exemption is high. Larger estates may still face federal issues or require extra planning to reduce tax exposure. We review your approximate net worth and explain what current tax rules mean for your situation.
What is probate and can planning reduce it?
Probate is the court supervised process of gathering a person's assets, paying valid bills, and transferring what remains to heirs. If property is held only in your name with no beneficiary listed, it usually must pass through probate. With tools like joint ownership, beneficiary designations, and trusts, we can often limit how much goes through probate and make things smoother for your family.
When should I start estate planning?
Any adult can benefit from at least a simple will and powers of attorney. Major life events like marriage, divorce, a new child, or buying property are strong signals that it is time to put a plan in place. If you already have documents, those same events are a good reason to review and update them.
Secure Your Legacy With A Plan
Your legacy is more than bank accounts and real estate. It includes who you trust to make decisions, how you want loved ones supported, and how you want to be remembered in Missoula and across Western Montana. Bulman, Jones & Cook makes estate planning straightforward so you can stop worrying and know your plan is on paper.