Estate Planning Attorney in Aztec & Farmington, New Mexico
Estate planning is how you make sure your property goes to the people you love, in the way you choose, with as little cost and delay as possible. Attorney Ryan Lane prepares clear, personalized estate plans for individuals, married couples, and families in Aztec, Farmington, Bloomfield, and throughout San Juan County, New Mexico. Ryan is also licensed in Colorado and helps families in Durango and Southwest Colorado with their estate plans.
Our Estate Planning Services
- Revocable living trusts, which can help your family avoid probate and keep your affairs private
- Last wills and testaments, including pour-over wills that work together with a trust
- Durable financial powers of attorney, so someone you trust can handle your finances if you cannot
- Advance health care directives, so your medical wishes are known and followed
- Transfer on death deeds and beneficiary planning for real estate, bank accounts, and retirement accounts
- Trust funding, including preparing deeds to move real estate into your trust
- Updates to older estate plans after a marriage, divorce, move, birth, death, or change in New Mexico law
- Trust administration help for successor trustees after a loved one passes away
How the Process Works
- Consultation. We meet to talk about your family, your property, and your goals.
- Custom plan. We draft documents tailored to you and explain them in plain English.
- Signing. You sign your documents in our Aztec office with the required witnesses and notary.
- Funding and follow-up. We help make sure your property is titled correctly so your plan works when it is needed.
Why Plan Now?
Without a plan, New Mexico law decides who receives your property, and your family may have to go through probate court. A well-prepared estate plan lets you choose who inherits, who manages your affairs, and who cares for minor children. It can also save your family time, expense, and stress during a difficult season.
Estate Planning FAQs
Do I need a will or a trust?
It depends on your property, your family, and your goals. Many families choose a revocable living trust to avoid probate, especially if they own real estate. Others are well served by a will. We will walk you through the options and recommend what fits your situation.
Does New Mexico have an estate tax?
New Mexico does not currently impose a state estate tax or inheritance tax. Very large estates may still be subject to federal estate tax, which we can address in your plan.
I own property in Colorado too. Can you help?
Yes. Ryan is licensed to practice law in both New Mexico and Colorado, which is helpful for Four Corners families with property in both states. Learn more about our estate planning services for Durango and Southwest Colorado.
Schedule a Consultation
To talk with Ryan about your estate plan, call 505-333-4494, text us, or visit our Contact page. Our office is at 103 S. Main Ave., Aztec, NM 87410, and we serve clients in Aztec, Farmington, Bloomfield, Kirtland, Flora Vista, and throughout San Juan County, as well as Durango, Cortez, and Southwest Colorado for estate planning.
This page provides general information, not legal advice. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship.