Planning for the future is never easy, but having a solid estate plan ensures that your loved ones and assets are protected. At Wall, McLean & Gallagher, our estate planning attorneys in Helena help clients across Montana build clear, effective plans that reduce stress and provide peace of mind.
Many people delay estate planning because it means thinking about difficult subjects like illness, incapacity, or death. But putting a plan in place now ensures that your loved ones are cared for, your property is managed the way you want, and costly legal battles are avoided later. Our role is to make estate planning straightforward, personal, and tailored to your needs—so you can move forward with confidence.
Why Estate Planning Matters in Montana
Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or elderly. Anyone who owns property, has children, or wants to control how their healthcare decisions are made can benefit. Without a plan, Montana law decides how your assets are divided, which may not reflect your wishes. Families without a clear plan often face unnecessary delays, expenses, and disputes. By working with an experienced estate planning lawyer in Helena, you can:
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Protect your property and financial legacy.
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Make sure your healthcare choices are respected.
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Appoint trusted people to handle your affairs if you can’t.
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Provide security for your spouse, children, or other loved ones.
Comprehensive Estate Planning Services in Helena
At Wall, McLean & Gallagher, we understand that every family’s situation is unique. That’s why our estate planning services cover a wide range of options to fit your needs. We take the time to listen, explain your choices in plain language, and create a plan that reflects your goals.
Wills
A will allows you to clearly state how your property should be distributed and who should serve as guardian for minor children. Without one, the court decides these matters for you.
Trusts
Trusts are flexible tools that can help you manage assets, reduce taxes, and protect your family from unnecessary court involvement. We help you decide whether a revocable living trust, special needs trust, or another type is right for your situation.
Durable Powers of Attorney
By naming someone you trust to handle financial or legal matters, you ensure that your affairs are managed smoothly if you become unable to act for yourself.
Healthcare Directives and Living Wills
These documents ensure that your medical preferences are honored, even if you cannot speak for yourself. They give peace of mind to your family during difficult times.
Special Needs Planning
If you have a loved one with a disability, we can help you structure your estate plan to provide for them without jeopardizing eligibility for government benefits. Our Helena estate planning attorneys will guide you step by step, helping you create a plan that fits your goals today while remaining flexible for the future.
Estate Planning for Montana Families
Montana families often face unique challenges when it comes to estate planning. Whether it’s managing agricultural land, planning for retirement, or handling complex financial assets, we create strategies tailored to Montana’s legal and financial landscape.
Our attorneys are here to help families in Helena and beyond:
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Preserve family farms, ranches, and small businesses.
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Protect blended families and second marriages.
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Plan for college costs and long-term healthcare expenses.
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Support charitable giving and legacy goals.
No matter your circumstances, we work to ensure that your estate plan reflects what matters most to you.
Why Choose Wall, McLean & Gallagher
Choosing the right estate planning attorney is about more than just legal knowledge—it’s about trust. Families across Montana turn to us because we combine decades of experience with a personal, client-focused approach.
When you work with our Helena estate planning lawyers, you can expect:
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Personalized guidance tailored to your goals and family dynamics.
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Clear explanations without legal jargon.
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Long-term support to update your plan as life changes.
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Compassionate service from a team that understands Montana families.
Start Your Estate Plan Today
The best time to plan for the future is now. By taking proactive steps, you can protect your family, preserve your assets, and reduce stress for your loved ones. At Wall, McLean & Gallagher, we are here to make the process approachable and effective. Call our office or request a consultation online to speak with an estate planning attorney in Helena, Montana. Together, we’ll create a plan that gives you peace of mind and protects what matters most.
Common Questions About Estate Planning
Do I need a will or a trust?
A will outlines how your property will be distributed, while a trust can offer additional benefits like avoiding probate and providing long-term management of assets. Many families choose to use both.
What happens if I don’t have an estate plan?
If you pass away without a plan, Montana law controls how your property is divided. This can lead to delays, higher costs, and results that may not match your wishes.
How often should I update my estate plan?
You should review your plan every few years or after major life changes such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or significant financial shifts.
Do I need an attorney to create an estate plan?
While some forms are available online, working with an attorney ensures your documents are legally valid and customized to your unique needs under Montana law.