Estate Planning Simplified: Wills, Trusts, and Protecting Your Future With Meredith Hill
Estate planning. Those two words might conjure images of wealthy retirees or complicated legal documents that seem irrelevant to your current life stage. But after my recent conversation with Meredith Hill, an estate planning attorney who left her "cushy" government job to start her own law firm, I've come to understand that estate planning isn't just for the wealthy—it's for everyone.
Breaking the Biggest Estate Planning Myth + Common Mistakes
Perhaps the most eye-opening part of our conversation was dismantling the common misconception that estate planning is only necessary if you have significant assets. Meredith passionately explained that estate planning is about much more than distributing wealth—it's about protecting your family, making your wishes known, and saving your loved ones from unnecessary stress during already difficult times. Meredith also shares some of the most comment mistakes people make when estate planning.
Wills vs. Trusts: Understanding the Differences
One of the most confusing aspects of estate planning for many people is understanding the difference between wills and trusts. How do you know which one is best for you and your family? Meredith breaks down the difference between the two and how to determine which ones is best for you.
When Should You Start Estate Planning?
While many believe estate planning should happen once you’ve acquired a ton of assets or when you’re of a certain age, according to Meredith, estate planning can start now! The truth is, as soon as you're an adult, especially if you have children, you should have basic estate planning documents in place (check out the episode below for a list of those documents).
From Government Attorney to Owning Her Law Firm
Meredith's personal journey was equally fascinating. After years in a secure government position practicing various areas of law, she took the leap to start her own firm focused exclusively on estate planning. The entrepreneurial journey hasn't been without challenges. Meredith spoke candidly about the emotional rollercoaster of running her own practice—the financial pressure, the responsibility of being the final decision-maker, and the constant need to market herself and her services.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're just starting your adult life, enjoying retirement, have modest assets or substantial wealth, estate planning deserves a place on your priority list. Because ultimately, it's not about you—it's about those you love most.
Ready Start Planning?
If you’re ready to start estate planning and you live in Maryland, DC or Virginia, contact Meredith at The Hill Law Group and schedule a virtual meet and greet. From Wills and Trusts, to Power of Attorney and Healthcare Directives, she and her team is available to help you create, secure and protect what matters to you the most.
Connect With Meredith
— Visit The Hill Law Group
