At the Law Office of Dundee W. Carter, LLC, we believe that planning for the future doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Simple estate planning is a smart, proactive way to make sure your wishes are clearly documented and your loved ones are cared for—without unnecessary complexity.
With over 26 years of legal experience, Attorney Dundee W. Carter is here to guide you through the essential steps of planning your estate with clarity, compassion, and care.
What Is Simple Estate Planning?
Simple estate planning involves creating a basic, yet effective, set of legal documents to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes and that your family knows how to carry out those wishes in the event of your death or incapacity. It’s a thoughtful way to prepare for the unexpected and protect the people you care about most.
Key Components of a Simple Estate Plan
A simple estate plan doesn’t have to be complicated—but it should cover the essentials to protect you and your loved ones. At its core, a well-prepared plan includes documents that clearly outline your wishes, designate trusted individuals to act on your behalf, and ensure your assets are distributed as intended. From naming beneficiaries and guardians to authorizing decision-makers for financial and medical matters, each component plays a vital role. Taking the time to organize these details now can help prevent confusion, delays, and unnecessary stress for your family in the future.
Last Will and Testament
Your will is the cornerstone of your estate plan.
What it does: Specifies who should receive your property, who should manage your estate, and who should care for any minor children.
Why it matters: Without a will, state law decides how your assets are distributed—which may not align with your preferences.
What to include:
- Beneficiaries – Who gets what
- Executor – Who handles the administration of your estate
- Guardianship – Who cares for minor children, if applicable
- Personal Bequests – You can leave meaningful items or gifts to specific people
- Beneficiary Designations
Beneficiary Designations
Some assets—like retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and payable-on-death bank accounts—are passed directly to named beneficiaries.
Why it matters: These assets don’t go through probate, so it’s important to keep designations up to date.
Action step: Review your beneficiary designations regularly, especially after major life events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.
Durable Power of Attorney
This legal document allows someone you trust to manage your financial affairs if you become unable to do so.
Why it matters: Without it, your family may have to go to court to get authority to help you.
Action step: Choose someone responsible and trustworthy to serve as your agent.
Advance Health Care Directive
This includes both a Living Will and a Health Care Power of Attorney.
Living Will: Outlines your medical treatment preferences if you can’t speak for yourself.
Health Care Power of Attorney: Appoints someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so.
Why it matters: Helps ensure your healthcare wishes are honored and relieves your loved ones of difficult guesswork during a crisis.
Inventory of Assets
A written list of your assets helps your family and your executor know what you own and where everything is located.
Why it matters: A clear inventory streamlines the estate process and helps avoid confusion or missed accounts.
Action step: Create a list of your major assets—bank accounts, real estate, investments, insurance policies, and valuables.
Why Start with a Simple Plan?
You don’t need to be wealthy or retired to benefit from estate planning. In fact, some of the most important decisions—like who will care for your children, or who can access your medical information—can be addressed in a simple plan. It’s about peace of mind and having a plan in place should the unexpected occur.
Here to Help You Get Started
At the Law Office of Dundee W. Carter, LLC, we’re proud to help individuals and families across South Carolina build strong foundations for the future. Whether you’re just getting started—or updating an older plan—we’ll walk you through the process with care and attention to detail.
Let us help you protect what matters most—with simplicity and confidence. Contact us to schedule your consultation.
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