Estate Planning - 1st Step 

Dear Reader, I'm sure there are many ways to go about estate planning, but this is the way I did it. My husband and I went to a trust officer at our bank. We felt comfortable about it because we knew him - a man of integrity. He helped us set up a marital trust and a residual trust. Having  a marital trust meant that after the death of my husband I would immediately inherit it and would not have to go through probate court. The residual trust would still be in place for our children. I was sent a monthly check from the trust fund. As I watched my assets grow, I knew I needed a broker to help me invest wisely. Again I was very fortunate because I could turn to the son of close friends, knowing he would steer me well. In addition, I had been advised of a good lawyer. So between these excellent people I felt confident that I could live comfortably and fully. In case you don't know to whom you should turn, talk to friends you respect. Listen carefully, weigh the remarks, make inquiries, and take it from there. You might even want to meet with a prospective advisor to be sure your personalities mesh. Good Luck. Grandma