Colorado Estate Planning And Probate Attorneys Supporting You

Proper estate planning is an important part of every person’s financial plan. Estate planning for yourself and family is growing more complicated in Colorado. Wills are still very commonly used, but trusts are also very valuable and often are necessary to meet a person’s or family’s needs. Our Aurora estate planning and probate attorneys can assist you with the following:

• Basic estate plans: This includes a will, financial power of attorney, medical power of attorney and an advanced directive (also known as a living will). All four parts are absolutely necessary for all estate plans. If one part is lacking, this could have severe consequences.
• Contingent trusts: These are very useful trusts and are especially common among couples who have minor children. Such trusts prevent a huge payout of money to 18-year-olds, who are not responsible enough to handle large payouts, in case of the death of both parents.
• Inter vivos trusts: These are trusts that become effective during the life of the person who forms the trust, as opposed to testamentary trusts, which take effect after the death of the person who has formed the trust. Inter vivos trusts have many uses and tax implications, so they must be constructed with great care by an experienced attorney.
• Will contests: Sadly, it is not uncommon to see situations where a person has exercised “undue influence” upon another in an effort to inherit their property upon their death. Unfortunately, previously lost or forgotten family members may simply pop up in the last months of a person’s life and then make several changes to a person’s estate plan in an effort to deprive legitimate friends or family members of their inheritance. In short, they make a mess of things. Steps can be taken to guard against such actions and to undo the harm once they’ve been completed.
• Probate: A person’s property often ends up in probate upon their death. The process can be quite intimidating for the person’s remaining friends and family members, but it doesn’t have to be if you have proper counsel. Moreover, probate often can be avoided if you approach estate administration properly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado Estate Planning And Probate

Below are common questions that our attorneys address about estate planning and the Colorado probate process.

What documents are required for a strong estate plan in Colorado?

It takes more than a simple will to create a sound estate plan. Your plan must include four essential documents that work together to protect your interests.

• Last will and testament: Outlines how your property is distributed and names a guardian for minor children
• Medical power of attorney: Appoints someone to make healthcare decisions when you cannot communicate
• Advance directive (living will): Explains your preferences for life‑sustaining treatment if you face a terminal condition
• Financial power of attorney: Authorizes a trusted person to manage financial matters if you become unable to act

Overlooking even one of these documents can force your family to seek court approval for decisions that should remain private.

Can a will be overturned if a relative manipulated my loved one?

Yes. Colorado courts allow challenges to wills influenced by manipulation or coercion. Undue influence occurs when someone pressures a vulnerable person to change their estate plan for personal gain. This often involves a relative who reappears late in life and attempts to redirect assets.

If evidence shows that the changes did not reflect your loved one’s true intent, the court may invalidate the affected provisions. These cases require careful review of medical records, witness statements and the circumstances surrounding the estate plan.

What should I do if I am in charge of a loved one’s probate in Arapahoe or Adams counties?

Serving as a personal representative is a significant legal duty. In Colorado, you are required to identify assets, notify creditors, pay valid debts and distribute property according to the will or state law. Local probate courts also impose strict filing and notice requirements. Wise steps to take include:

• Gather documents such as the will, financial statements and property records
• Secure assets to prevent their loss or misuse during estate administration
• Follow county procedures to help ensure tasks comply with Colorado probate rules
• Seek legal guidance when questions arise about deadlines or contested issues

Proper support helps you manage these responsibilities while avoiding costly mistakes, and an Aurora estate planning attorney can help answer any of your questions about estate planning and probate.

Skilled Guidance For Your Aurora Estate Planning Needs

At Kishinevsky & Raykin, Attorneys at Law, our Colorado team provides clear direction for estate planning and navigating probate. Call us at 720-863-4256 or submit the online contact form to arrange a free consultation.