THE LAW OFFICES OF

Boyd & Boyd, P.C.

Estate Planning FAQs

Q1: What is estate planning and why is it important?

A: Estate planning is the process of arranging for the management and distribution of your assets after your death or incapacity. A well-designed estate plan ensures your wishes are honored, minimizes taxes, protects your loved ones, and avoids unnecessary court involvement. At Boyd & Boyd, P.C., we create customized plans that offer peace of mind and long-term protection for you and your family.

Q2: What documents are included in a basic estate plan?

A: A basic estate plan typically includes:

A Last Will and Testament

A Revocable Living Trust

A Durable Power of Attorney

A Health Care Proxy

A Living Will or Advance Directive Our team tailors each document to meet your specific needs and goals.

Q3: What happens if I die without an estate plan?

A: Without an estate plan, state law (called intestacy law) determines who inherits your assets — often in ways you might not have intended. Your family may also face unnecessary legal fees, delays, and potential disputes. Planning ahead with Boyd & Boyd, P.C. ensures your legacy is protected according to your wishes.

Q4: How often should I review or update my estate plan?

A: At Boyd & Boyd, P.C., we strongly recommend reviewing your estate plan every year — because even small changes in your life or the law can have major consequences if your plan is out of date.
​Annual reviews help ensure your plan:

Continues to protect your loved ones as intended

Reflects your current wishes and family dynamics

Maximizes available tax-saving opportunities

Complies with any changes in federal or Massachusetts law Additionally, certain life events require an immediate update, including:

Marriage, divorce, or the loss of a spouse

Birth, adoption, or death of a child or grandchild

Changes in your health, finances, or residency

Death or incapacity of someone named in your documents
​Failing to review your plan regularly can leave your family exposed to unnecessary court involvement, tax liability, and stress. Our clients enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing their plan is current — and that Boyd & Boyd, P.C. will be there to guide them through every stage of life.

Q5: Do I still need a will if I have a living trust?

A: Yes. A will — specifically, a “pour-over will” — acts as a safety net to transfer any assets you may not have placed into your trust during your lifetime. It ensures your trust remains fully funded and your wishes are honored.

Should Ask Questions (SAQs)

(These are questions a smart consumer should ask — even if they don’t think to.)

Q1: How does estate planning help reduce estate taxes and protect assets?

A: Strategic estate planning can significantly reduce or even eliminate federal and Massachusetts estate taxes. We use techniques such as gifting strategies, trust planning, and asset protection structures to safeguard your wealth. Our Wealth Protection & Transfer Plan is designed to maximize tax savings and preserve your assets across generations.

Q2: What makes Boyd & Boyd, P.C. different from other estate planning firms?

A: At Boyd & Boyd, P.C., estate planning is not a transaction — it’s a relationship. We combine decades of experience, in-depth tax knowledge, and personalized service. Our comprehensive process ensures your plan works as intended — now, and for generations to come.

Q3: How can estate planning protect my family if I become incapacitated?

A: Without planning, your loved ones may need to seek court-appointed guardianship to manage your affairs. With a well-drafted Durable Power of Attorney and Health Care Proxy, you empower people you trust to make financial and medical decisions without court involvement.

Q4: Can estate planning help with privacy concerns?

A: Yes. Assets held in a properly funded trust can avoid probate, keeping your financial affairs private. Without a trust, probate becomes a public court process. At Boyd & Boyd, P.C., we design plans that protect both your assets and your family’s privacy.

Q5: How much does estate planning cost?

A: The cost of an estate plan depends on the complexity of your situation and the level of planning required. We offer transparent, flat-fee pricing whenever possible. In your initial consultation, we’ll outline a custom plan and the associated investment, with no surprises.

Discuss Your Estate Planning Questions

Ready to protect your family and secure your legacy?

Call (508) 775-7800 to request a free Estate Planning Strategy Session with Boyd & Boyd, P.C., serving families since 1976. Legal work requires a separate agreed scope, fee arrangement, and engagement.

1555 Iyannough Road, Unit 1BW · Hyannis, Massachusetts 02601(508) 775-7800 · plan@boydandboydpc.com