Georgia Estate Planning FAQs

Blaska Holm Process FAQs

Who will be helping me at your estate planning law firm?

We have a dedicated estate planning lawyer Katie Blaska Dodd. She has helped hundreds of families in Georgia and is excited to work with you. Most clients tell us they love Katie’s warmth, ability to explain complex legal jargon in a way that makes it less scary, professionalism, and of course her office puppy, Pepper!

Click here to schedule a consultation with Katie today.

How long does estate planning take from start to finish?

Most estate plans are completed within 4 weeks from your initial consultation. More complex plans involving trusts, funding, or business assets may take a bit longer. We guide you through each step to keep the process efficient and transparent.

How do you handle changes over time—like births, marriage, or asset updates?

Whenever there is a life change or event, we recommend contacting us and having us review your estate plan to reflect these changes. Generally, these are very quick conversations just ensuring your documents reflect your changing situation.

Do you assist with probate or trust administration if something happens later?

Yes. Katie, our highly experienced estate planning lawyer, helps create estate plans AND works with family to probate them. Katie can determine what your expectations are and how she can best help your family to suit your needs.

Can you explain your fee structure and any additional costs that might come up?

We have created multiple estate planning packages depending on your situation to make it as transparent as possible to understand the cost and what is included. We are always able to customize but generally find the packages we have created work for most families.

Click here to see our services and pricing.

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Estate Planning General Questions

What legal documents are part of a basic estate plan?

A comprehensive estate plan usually includes a will, power of attorney, and advance healthcare directive. These ensure your finances, healthcare, and loved ones are protected—especially during an emergency or incapacity.

How do I get started with estate planning in Georgia?

The easiest way to start is with a consultation. We’ll help you understand what you need based on your family, goals, and Georgia law. No pressure, just clear guidance. Schedule your estate planning consultation today.

How often should I update my estate plan?

We recommend reviewing your plan every 3–5 years or after major life events like marriage, divorce, a new child, or a big change in assets. Keeping your documents current ensures your wishes are honored when it matters most.

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Wills and Trusts Questions

What happens if I die without a will in Georgia?

If you die without a will in Georgia, state intestacy laws determine who receives your property typically your closest relatives. This means your assets may not go to the people you would have chosen, and a judge will decide who takes care of any minor children. A valid will ensures your wishes are followed and protects your loved ones from confusion and court delays.

Do I need a lawyer to create a valid estate plan in Georgia?

While it’s legally possible to draft your own will in Georgia, DIY documents often miss critical legal requirements or fail to reflect your true intentions. A lawyer ensures your estate plan is valid, enforceable, and tailored to your life, saving your loved one time, money, and potential legal issues.

What’s the difference between a will and a trust?

A will is a document that takes effect after death and must go through probate. A trust, on the other hand, can take effect during your lifetime and allows assets to be transferred privately without court involvement. Trusts offer more control, flexibility, and protection—especially for blended families or those with specific wishes. Trusts tend to be more complex, however, and require routine maintenance.

What is a power of attorney, and why is it important?

A power of attorney (POA) allows someone you trust to handle your finances or make medical decisions if you’re unable to. In Georgia, separate POAs are often used for financial matters and healthcare decisions. Every adult should have one especially parents, caregivers, and aging individuals.

What’s the difference between a Georgia Advance Directive and a Living Will?

In Georgia, the Advance Directive for Health Care combines two documents: a Living Will (your medical care preferences) and a Healthcare Power of Attorney (who can make decisions if you can’t). It’s a more comprehensive, legally recognized document than a traditional Living Will alone.

Can I avoid probate in Georgia?

Yes—using strategies such as revocable living trusts, joint ownership, and beneficiary designations can help avoid probate. This saves your family time, money, and stress. We can help design a plan to bypass the court system wherever possible.