Estate Planning Basics: What Every Minnesota Family Should Include in Their Plan
When many people hear “estate planning,” they assume it’s only for the wealthy. In reality, if you own a home, have retirement accounts, savings, or children, you need an estate plan. A properly prepared plan protects your assets, ensures your wishes are followed, and prevents your loved ones from facing unnecessary court involvement and expense.
At Lauren Pevehouse Law, we help Minnesota individuals and families create clear, customized estate plans designed to protect what matters most. Below are the four core documents every comprehensive estate plan should include.
Last Will and Testament: Protect Your Children and Your Wishes
A Will directs who receives your property after death, but for parents, its most critical function is naming a legal guardian for minor children.
Without a Will, a Minnesota court—not you—decides who will raise your children. A Will also appoints the person responsible for carrying out your wishes (your Personal Representative). However, Wills must still pass through probate, which can delay distribution and create public court records.
How we help: We draft legally sound Wills that clearly reflect your wishes and protect your family from uncertainty.
Revocable Living Trust: Avoid Probate and Maintain Privacy
A Revocable Living Trust allows your assets to pass directly to your beneficiaries without going through probate court. You stay in full control during your lifetime, and your chosen trustee seamlessly steps in when needed.
Benefits include:
Avoiding probate delays
Preserving privacy
Reducing court costs
Providing smoother transitions for families
How we help: Lauren Pevehouse Law designs customized Trust-based estate plans that protect homes, investments, and family wealth while simplifying administration.
Durable Power of Attorney: Financial Protection During Incapacity
A Durable POA authorizes someone you trust to manage financial matters if you become unable to act yourself. Without one, your family may need to pursue a costly court guardianship to access accounts or handle bills.
Your agent can:
Pay expenses and manage property
Handle banking and investments
Communicate with institutions
How we help: We prepare POAs that are broad enough to protect you while still tailored to your comfort level.
Advance Healthcare Directive: Make Your Medical Wishes Known
This document ensures your healthcare choices are honored if you cannot communicate.
Includes:
Living Will – outlines end-of-life treatment preferences
Healthcare Agent – names someone to make medical decisions for you
Without this, loved ones may face conflict or court involvement when urgent decisions arise.
How we help: We guide you through these sensitive decisions and draft directives that clearly express your wishes.
Why Estate Planning Matters Now
Estate planning is about control, protection, and peace of mind—not wealth. Every adult should have these documents in place, especially parents and homeowners.
At Lauren Pevehouse Law, we provide a high-touch, personalized estate planning experience for Minnesota families. From initial consultation to beautifully prepared final documents, we make the process clear, efficient, and stress-free.
Ready to Protect Your Family and Your Assets?
Schedule an estate planning consultation with Lauren Pevehouse Law today. We will walk you through every step and build a plan tailored specifically to your life, your family, and your future.
👉 Book your consultation now and get your plan in place.
