Finding Lawyers Near Me for Wills and Finances: A Guide for Veterans

Creating a will is a crucial part of ensuring your loved ones and assets are taken care of after you pass away. As a veteran, you deserve peace of mind knowing your affairs are in order, and that includes having a proper estate plan. But navigating the legal system and finding the right lawyer can be overwhelming.

This guide will highlight resources specifically for veterans seeking legal assistance, particularly for wills and estate planning. We’ll explore organizations and online services offering free or discounted services designed to cater to the unique needs of veterans.

Navigating Legal Resources for Veterans

Finding lawyers who offer free or discounted services for veterans can be challenging. Here’s a breakdown of trusted options, grouped into two categories:

Legal Services and Attorneys for Veterans

1. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

The VA offers free legal services, including will preparation, at various VA centers across the country. They also provide online resources and materials to help veterans understand estate planning. To find a VA legal services clinic near you, visit the VA website.

2. Military Pro Bono Project

This project, managed by the ABA Standing Committee on Legal Assistance for Military Personnel (LAMP), connects veterans with pro bono legal assistance.

3. American Bar Association Veterans Legal Services

The ABA offers a program specifically for veterans, with volunteer attorneys providing free legal assistance on various issues, including estate planning.

4. National Veterans Legal Services Program (NVLSP)

NVLSP offers free legal representation for eligible veterans. They’ve been assisting veterans since 1981, ensuring access to legal resources.

5. Veterans Justice Project NYC

While located in New York City, this project provides legal services for veterans, service members, and their families, focusing on long-term economic security, including wills and testaments.

6. Stateside Legal

Stateside Legal helps connect military members and their families with legal aid across the country. Their website provides a comprehensive platform to find legal aid by state, need, and specific issue.

Online Will Makers and Services for Veterans

7. Cake Online Wills

Cake’s will tool is a popular choice for creating affordable wills online. It’s designed by attorneys and estate planners, making the process simple and easy. Veterans can use the code "THANKSVETS" for a special discount, reducing the cost to just $1.

8. FreeWill

FreeWill is a well-known online will maker that is completely free. Created by attorneys, it offers simple tools for creating wills, including provisions for guardianship, pet care, charitable donations, and digital assets.

9. GoodTrust

GoodTrust offers attorney-crafted wills and advanced directives. While their premium membership has a cost, veterans can access it for free for 12 months, including a will, medical directive, durable financial power of attorney, and more. Use code "VETERANSDAY2022" at checkout.

10. Do Your Own Will

This free tool is user-friendly and requires only a simple questionnaire. It includes options for a living will, durable power of attorney, and digital agent, offering a comprehensive solution. However, it may not be as customizable for more complex needs.

11. Fabric

Fabric provides another free option for creating online wills. They also offer the option to purchase life insurance policies, providing a potential all-in-one solution.

12. VA’s Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance

Beneficiaries of VA’s Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance are eligible for free financial planning and online will preparation services. This enables quick and easy will creation without hiring an attorney. You can access these services through Financial Point Plus.

Estate Planning Considerations for Veterans

Estate planning is a crucial step in safeguarding your family’s future. It involves more than just a will, and veterans may have unique needs to consider. Some essential estate planning documents include:

• Legal Will: This document outlines your wishes for your assets and designates an executor to manage your affairs after your passing.
• Powers of Attorney: This document appoints a trusted individual to make financial, legal, and business decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
• Guardianship: If you have children, pets, or dependents, a will should name a legal guardian to care for them if you are unable.
• Trusts: Trusts protect your assets and property and ensure they are distributed according to your wishes, avoiding probate court.
• Living Will: A living will, or advance directive, specifies your wishes regarding medical treatment if you become unable to make decisions for yourself.
• Life Insurance: VA offers life insurance benefits to veterans, providing financial security for your beneficiaries.

Taking the First Steps to Estate Planning

Creating a will is an important step towards securing your family’s future. The resources available to veterans offer valuable guidance and support. Remember:

• Don’t delay: It’s never too early to create a will, and your needs may change over time.
• Seek professional advice: Consult with a legal professional to ensure your estate plan meets your individual needs and complies with local regulations.
• Utilize available resources: Take advantage of the free or discounted services offered to veterans to ease the process.

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By taking these steps, you can ensure your legacy is protected and your loved ones are well-cared for in the future.