Why Lawrence Families Need Estate Planning

Estate Planning Attorney in Lawrence

Families in Lawrence, Kansas want peace of mind that their assets will be managed and protected both during their lives and after. At Advanced Legal Planning, we design trust-based estate plans that safeguard your wealth, avoid probate, and create protections for your children and loved ones.

Why Trusts Are the Foundation of Planning

Your estate plan may include one or more of the following documents and services:

Avoid Probate in Douglas County: Keeps assets out of lengthy and costly court proceedings.
Manage Incapacity: Successor trustees can seamlessly step in.
Protect Children’s Inheritances: Sub-trusts guard against divorce, lawsuits, or creditors.
Provide Flexibility: Trusts evolve with your family and legal changes.

See our Trusts page.

The Role of Wills in Kansas

Although the trust is the cornerstone, a will is still required for:

Naming Guardians for Minors – Kansas law requires guardianship appointments be in a will.
Pour-Over Function – moves stray assets into the trust.
Disabled Spouse Protection – creates a testamentary trust in rare Medicaid-related cases.

Learn more on our Wills page.

Asset Protection for Lawrence Families

Beyond probate avoidance, our estate plans provide asset protection that shields your family from unexpected risks:

Divorce settlements.
Lawsuits or creditor claims.
Bankruptcy.

With nursing home costs exceeding $70,000 per year in Kansas, many families fear losing their savings. Our elder law services integrate Medicaid planning into your estate plan to preserve your home and assets

See our Elder Law & Medicaid Planning page.

Serving Lawrence and Surrounding Communities

Advanced Legal Planning serves Lawrence, KS, and nearby communities including Eudora, Baldwin City, and Tonganoxie.

Derby Office: 111 N. Baltimore Ave, Derby, KS 67037

Wichita Office: 10300 W Central Ave, Wichita, KS 67212

Call today or use our Contact Page to schedule your estate planning consultation.

Schedule a Consultation

Lawrence-Specific FAQs

Do I need both a will and a trust?

Yes—the trust is primary, but a will is still necessary for guardianship and backup.

How long does probate take in Douglas County?

9–12 months on average. Trust-based planning avoids it.

Can I protect my assets from nursing home costs?

Yes—with advance Medicaid planning and trust provisions.

How often should I update my plan?

Every 2–3 years, or sooner after life events.

Not in the immediate Wichita area?

We proudly serve families across Kansas and Northern Oklahoma. If you're outside our local region, you can still get expert guidance—virtual meetings are available by request.