Safeguard Your Future in North Carolina: Why Estate Planning Matters

Adam Shingleton, Attorney

Planning for the future is a critical step to protect your assets and provide clarity for your loved ones, yet many hesitate to address it. At Shingleton Law in Hampstead, NC, we recognize that estate planning involves complex decisions about wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. Our experienced attorneys are here to simplify the process, ensuring your wishes are honored and your family is spared unnecessary burdens.

Failing to plan can have significant consequences. Without a will, North Carolina’s intestate succession laws dictate asset distribution, which may not align with your preferences. This can result in prolonged legal processes, increased costs (potentially 100–150% higher in legal and administrative fees), and elevated tax or healthcare expenses. In some cases, the absence of proper documents may require court-ordered guardianships, adding financial and emotional strain.

Essential Estate Planning Tools.

To secure your legacy, consider these four critical documents, each tailored to your unique needs by Shingleton Law:

• Will: A will is a legal instrument that directs how your assets—tangible (e.g., vehicles, heirlooms), real property (e.g., homes, land like 16456 U.S. 17), and intangible (e.g., bank accounts, investments)—are distributed after your passing. Under NCGS § 31-3.1, a valid will requires proper execution, including your signature and two witnesses. Our attorneys help you designate beneficiaries, appoint a trusted executor, and address special considerations, such as provisions for minors or charitable gifts.

  
  

• Durable Power of Attorney (POA): This document, governed by NCGS § 32C-1-104, empowers a trusted individual to manage your financial affairs if you’re incapacitated or unavailable. A durable POA remains effective even if you lose mental capacity, avoiding the need for costly court-appointed guardianships.

  
  

• Healthcare Power of Attorney (HPOA): Authorized by NCGS § 32A-15, an HPOA appoints someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to communicate, such as during a medical emergency. This ensures your healthcare preferences are respected across hospitals and insurance providers.

  
  

• Living Will: Known in North Carolina as a “Declaration of a Desire for a Natural Death” (NCGS § 90-321), a living will specifies your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment in terminal or irreversible conditions, such as a coma. It provides clear guidance to loved ones and medical professionals.

  
  

The Risks of DIY Estate Planning

Online estate planning tools may seem convenient, but they often fall short of North Carolina’s legal requirements. Generic templates may lack proper execution, omit state-specific provisions, or fail to address your unique circumstances, leading to invalid documents or unintended outcomes. These shortcomings can result in costly disputes or assets distributed against your wishes.

At Shingleton Law, we craft customized estate plans that comply with North Carolina law, ensuring your documents are legally sound and reflective of your goals. Whether you’re managing a property or planning for future generations, our team provides expert guidance to navigate trusts, beneficiary designations, and property transfers.

Why Act Now?

Delaying estate planning can leave your family vulnerable to legal and financial challenges. By partnering with Shingleton Law, you can minimize costs, streamline asset distribution, and provide peace of mind. Our North Carolina attorneys are committed to helping you create a comprehensive plan that protects your legacy and supports your loved ones.

Ready to start? Contact Shingleton Law today for a consultation to discuss your estate planning needs and take the first step toward a secure future.