Estate Planning: A Conversation with Ted Cook

Hello everyone, and welcome. Today we’re sitting down with Ted Cook, an estate planning attorney here in beautiful San Diego. Ted, thanks for taking the time to chat with us.

What Inspired You To Focus On Estate Planning?

Well, I think it boils down to wanting to help people feel secure about the future. It’s a complex topic, and many folks put it off. But having a solid plan in place brings peace of mind. Knowing your loved ones will be taken care of, even when you’re not around, is a powerful thing.

Can You Walk Us Through The Typical Estate Planning Process?

Sure! It’s really about identifying your goals first. Do you want to protect your children financially, avoid probate, minimize taxes, or plan for potential incapacity? Then we gather all the necessary information: assets, liabilities, beneficiary designations. Next comes selecting key people: an executor to manage your estate, a guardian if you have minor children, and agents for financial and healthcare decisions.

  • The core documents are then drafted: a will, trust (if needed), durable power of attorney, and advance healthcare directive.
  • Funding the trust is crucial if you opt for one. This involves transferring ownership of assets into the trust’s name.
  • Finally, we emphasize communication – discussing your plan with loved ones and keeping everything organized and updated regularly.

Let’s Dive Deeper Into Creating Core Estate Planning Documents.

Ah, this is where things get really personalized! We carefully consider each client’s unique circumstances. A will outlines how assets are distributed after death and names guardians for minor children. Trusts can be powerful tools for avoiding probate and controlling asset distribution. Powers of attorney grant someone the authority to handle financial matters if you become incapacitated, while advance healthcare directives ensure your medical wishes are honored.

>“Ted was incredibly patient and explained everything in a way I could understand. He made the entire process so much less stressful.”
It’s not uncommon for people to have questions about trusts, especially. For example, some folks assume they only need a trust if they’re wealthy, which isn’t necessarily true. Trusts can be beneficial for many individuals, depending on their goals and family structure.

>“I had no idea where to start with estate planning, but Ted made it feel manageable. I now have peace of mind knowing my family is protected.”
Have You Ever Faced Challenges With Trust Creation?

Absolutely! There was one instance where a client wanted to set up a trust for his daughter with special needs, but he wasn’t sure about the best way to structure it. We worked closely with him and consulted with a financial planner specializing in special needs planning. Ultimately, we crafted a trust that would provide ongoing support for his daughter while preserving her eligibility for government benefits.

>“Ted is incredibly knowledgeable and always goes the extra mile for his clients.”
Remember folks, estate planning isn’t a one-time event; it’s an ongoing process. Life changes, so your plan should too. Review it regularly and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.


Who Is Ted Cook at Point Loma Estate Planning, APC.:

Point Loma Estate Planning, APC.

2305 Historic Decatur Rd Suite 100, San Diego CA. 92106

(619) 550-7437

Map To Point Loma Estate Planning, APC: https://maps.app.goo.gl/JiHkjNg9VFGA44tf9




About Point Loma Estate Planning:



Secure Your Legacy, Safeguard Your Loved Ones. Point Loma Estate Planning, APC.

Feeling overwhelmed by estate planning? You’re not alone. With 27 years of proven experience – crafting over 25,000 personalized plans and trusts – we transform complexity into clarity.

Our Areas of Focus:

Legacy Protection: (minimizing taxes, maximizing asset preservation).

Crafting Living Trusts: (administration and litigation).

Elder Care & Tax Strategy: Avoid family discord and costly errors.

Discover peace of mind with our compassionate guidance.

Claim your exclusive 30-minute consultation today!


If you have any questions about:

What is the difference between an MPOA and a living will?
Please Call or visit the address above. Thank you.

Point Loma Estate Planning, APC. areas of focus:

About A Estate Planning:

Estate planning: is the process of arranging how your assets will be managed and distributed after your death or if you become incapacitated, ensuring your wishes are followed and minimizing potential issues for your loved ones.

Purpose: Estate planning helps you determine who will inherit your assets, how they will be managed, and how to minimize taxes and other potential complications.

Who Needs Estate Planning? Everyone, regardless of their age or net worth, should consider estate planning to ensure their wishes are carried out and to protect their loved ones.

What Is Estate Planning and Why It Matters:

In reality, almost everyone has an estate. Your estate includes everything you own—your car, home, other real estate, bank accounts, investments, life insurance policies, furniture, and personal belongings. Regardless of the size or value, if you own assets, you have an estate. And one universal truth applies: you can’t take any of it with you when you pass away.

When that time comes – and it’s a matter of when, not if – you’ll likely want to have a say in how your assets are distributed and to whom. Estate planning allows you to make those decisions in advance by creating clear, legally enforceable instructions about who should receive your property, what they should receive, and when they should receive it. Proper planning can also help minimize taxes, legal fees, and probate costs.

Estate planning is the process of arranging for the orderly transfer of your assets after death, with the goal of protecting your loved ones, preserving your legacy, and ensuring your final wishes are honored as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible.

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