We have all heard of the attorney-client privilege and this is largely relevant when people who have been accused of crimes are discussing the defense with their lawyers. However, it is important to be very honest with your attorney even when you are planning your estate.
If you were to omit important relevant information your attorney has no way of taking the appropriate actions. For example, some people have close relationships outside of their marriages. It is not an attorney’s job to make moral judgments. He or she simply advocates the interests of his or her client.
So, if such a relationship was to exist your attorney needs to know because the individual with whom you have been having this relationship may very well emerge in the event of your death to claim an inheritance.
Aside from this type of delicate situation some people may have entered into agreements in the past such as prenuptial or post-nuptial agreements. Your lawyer must know about these existing agreements in order to prepare your estate appropriately.
If you have given large gifts throughout your life this too is something that your attorney should be apprised of so that he or she can evaluate any potential tax exposure that may exist.
Honesty is always going to be the best policy when you are planning your estate. If you would in fact like to discuss your situation with an expert, don’t hesitate to pick up the phone to arrange for a consultation with a licensed and experienced Hartford estate planning lawyer.
Mr. Horowitz was awarded his Juris Doctor degree with honors from the University of Connecticut School of Law. While attending law school, Mr. Horowitz received the American Jurisprudence Award in Legal Ethics and the Nathan Burkan Award.
After graduation from law school, Mr. Horowitz continued his legal education at New York University School of Law where he received a Post Doctorate Law Degree in Taxation. He has also recently received a national achievement award.
Mr. Horowitz is admitted to practice before all the state courts in the State of Connecticut and the United States District Court.
Mr. Horowitz was selected for Super Lawyers in 2021.
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