Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning in Rochester, MN
Planning ahead doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful. Whether you're starting a family, preparing for retirement, or simply want more control over your future, we help people throughout Rochester and Southeastern Minnesota create wills, trusts, and other essential estate planning documents. From naming guardians to making healthcare choices, we guide you and your family through every step with clarity and care.
Wills and Trusts
A will lets you decide what happens to your assets and allows you to name guardians for minor children. A trust can help you avoid probate, manage your estate privately, and control how assets are distributed over time. If you’re not sure which is right for you, we’ll explain your options clearly and help you make the right call.
Powers of Attorney
If you become unable to manage your finances, a power of attorney allows someone you trust to step in. We’ll help you create a document that reflects exactly what powers you want to grant, based on what Minnesota law allows.
Healthcare Directives
A healthcare directive lets you make your medical wishes known and appoint someone to speak for you if you can’t. Sometimes called a living will, this document is an important way to ensure your care aligns with your values and meets Minnesota’s legal standards.
Beneficiary Designations
Not all assets pass through a will—life insurance, retirement accounts, and certain bank accounts often rely on beneficiary forms. We’ll help you make sure your estate plan lines up with those documents so nothing slips through the cracks.
Planning for Minor Children
We frequently work with families in communities like Rochester, Zumbrota, and Red Wing to plan for their children’s futures. That includes naming guardians, setting up trusts for education or care, and putting the right protections in place for peace of mind.
What We Offer:
- Young Families: Ensure your children are provided for and their guardians are designated should anything happen to you.
- Retirees: Protect your assets and ensure a smooth transition of your estate to the next generation.
- Business Owners: Secure the future of your company with succession planning that aligns with your personal estate plan.
Let us help you safeguard your future and your legacy.
Why People Plan Their Estates with Us
Knowledge of Minnesota Law:
We’ve spent more than 25 years helping families create estate plans that comply with Minnesota’s laws and court procedures. We break things down in plain English so you always understand what you’re signing—and why it matters.
Trusted by Professionals:
Many of our clients work as medical professionals or own a local business and value privacy. They come to us for straightforward advice, minimal hassle, and the assurance that their estate planning stays private.
Plans That Fit Your Life:
We work with first-time parents in Cannon Falls, retirees downsizing in Lake City, and individuals at every stage of life. Whether your estate is simple or complex, we’ll help you build a plan that reflects your values and priorities.
Licensed in Minnesota & Wisconsin:
If you own property across state lines or have family in both states, we can coordinate your plan to make sure it works in both jurisdictions. We know the estate and probate rules for each—and how to navigate them.
FAQs
Here are answers to common questions about estate planning. If you’d like personalized guidance, click below.
What’s the difference between a will and a trust?
A will outlines your wishes but usually involves probate. A trust lets assets pass outside of probate and can give you more control over how your estate is managed and distributed.
Does Minnesota have an estate tax?
Yes, estates over a certain value may owe estate tax in Minnesota. We can help estimate your exposure and structure your plan with taxes in mind.
Do I need an estate plan if I don’t have much?
Yes. Even without large savings or property, an estate plan lets you choose who handles your medical decisions, finances, and children’s care if something happens to you.
Can I change my estate plan later?
Definitely. We encourage reviewing your plan every few years or after major life events like marriage, divorce, or having a child. Updates are a normal part of keeping your plan relevant.
Can’t I just use an online form?
DIY documents often miss key requirements under Minnesota law. We regularly help clients fix or replace templates that didn’t work when they were needed most. Having a professional review your plan can save a lot of trouble down the line.
Can you help my children administer my estate after I’m gone?
Yes! Ongoing relationships with our clients and their families is important to us. We are here to ensure your family has guidance and peace of mind when administering your estate and honoring your wishes.
Take the First Step Toward a Plan That Works for You
Your estate plan doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We’ll help you put everything in place—clearly, comfortably, and at your pace. Whether you’re in Rochester, Wabasha, or Lake City, we offer flexible appointments in person or online.