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5 Legal Resolutions to Make in 2025
Prioritizing your legal health can provide peace of mind, protect your assets, and ensure that you and your loved ones are safeguarded against unforeseen challenges.
As we step into 2025, many of us are setting personal and professional goals to improve our lives. Amidst the hustle of New Year’s resolutions—like getting fit, learning a new skill, or traveling more—it’s essential not to overlook legal wellness. Prioritizing your legal health can provide peace of mind, protect your assets, and ensure that you and your loved ones are safeguarded against unforeseen challenges. Whatever your legal needs are, SMITH | ASHCRAFT is ready to help you start the new year representing you in your legal matters. Here are the top five legal resolutions to consider for 2025:
1. Create or Update Your Estate Plan
Why It Matters: An estate plan is not just for the wealthy; it’s a crucial step in ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and that your loved ones are taken care of in the event of your passing.
Action Steps:
- Draft a Will: Clearly outline how you want your assets distributed.
- Establish a Trust: Protect your estate from probate and reduce estate taxes.
- Assign Powers of Attorney: Designate trusted individuals to make financial and medical decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so.
- Review Beneficiary Designations: Ensure all your accounts and policies have up-to-date beneficiaries.
Pro Tip: Life changes such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or significant financial shifts necessitate updates to your estate plan. Make it a habit to review your plan annually. SMITH | ASHCRAFT is ready to help you take the next step in protecting your future. Let us know how we can help your estate planning needs today!
2. Get Your Divorce or Custody Agreements in Order
Why It Matters: If you’re navigating a divorce or dealing with child custody arrangements, having clear, legally sound agreements can prevent future disputes and provide stability for your family.
Action Steps:
- Consult with a Divorce Attorney: Gain a clear understanding of your rights and obligations.
- Document Agreements: Ensure all terms regarding asset division, alimony, and custody are documented legally.
- Consider Mediation: Resolve disputes amicably with the help of a professional mediator to save time and reduce emotional stress.
Pro Tip: Early resolution of divorce and custody matters can lead to more favorable outcomes and a smoother transition for everyone involved. Contact SMITH | ASHCRAFT today to help you start the divorce process or modify an existing order.
3. Strengthen Your Personal Legal Protections
Why It Matters: Protecting yourself legally can prevent issues from escalating and safeguard your personal and professional reputation.
Action Steps:
- Review Contracts Carefully: Whether it’s a lease, employment agreement, or service contract, understand all terms before signing.
- Understand Your Rights: Educate yourself about your rights in various situations, such as employment, tenancy, and consumer protection.
- Consider Liability Insurance: Protect yourself from potential lawsuits related to personal or professional activities.
Pro Tip: Regularly reviewing and understanding the legal documents you enter into can save you from future headaches and financial loss.
4. Address Criminal Records and Expungements
Why It Matters: A criminal record can impact your employment opportunities, housing applications, and overall reputation. Clearing your record can open doors to new opportunities and a fresh start.
Action Steps:
- Consult a Criminal Defense Attorney: Understand your eligibility for expungement or record sealing.
- File Necessary Paperwork: Complete and submit the required documents to the court.
- Follow Through with Hearings: Attend all scheduled hearings and comply with any court requirements.
Pro Tip: Even minor offenses can have significant long-term impacts. Addressing them proactively can make a substantial difference in your life. If you are facing charges, contact SMITH | ASHCRAFT now! Your fresh start, starts now. Don't delay obtaining the legal representation you deserve!

5. Enhance Your Business Legal Structure
Why It Matters: If you own a business, ensuring that your legal structure is sound can protect your personal assets, optimize your taxes, and streamline your operations.
Action Steps:
- Choose the Right Business Entity: Decide whether a sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation best suits your business needs.
- Draft Essential Agreements: Create operating agreements, partnership agreements, and other necessary documents.
- Ensure Compliance: Stay up-to-date with local, state, and federal regulations that apply to your business.
Pro Tip: Regularly consult with a business attorney to adapt your legal structure as your business grows and evolves.
Prioritize Legal Wellness in 2025
Legal wellness is about being proactive in managing your legal affairs to prevent problems before they arise. By making these resolutions, you’re not only protecting yourself and your loved ones but also setting the foundation for a secure and prosperous year ahead.
At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we understand that legal matters can be complex and emotionally challenging. Our team of experienced attorneys is here to guide you through every step, providing personalized solutions tailored to your unique situation. Whether you’re updating your estate plan, navigating a divorce, or enhancing your business’s legal structure, we’re committed to helping you achieve peace of mind and a fresh start in 2025.
Take the first step towards legal wellness today. Contact us to schedule a confidential consultation and let us help you make 2025 your most secure and successful year yet.
About SMITH | ASHCRAFT
SMITH ASHCRAFT is a leading law firm specializing in divorce, custody, criminal defense, and estate planning. With a commitment to compassionate and fierce legal guidance, we strive to support our clients through life’s most challenging moments. Visit smithashcraft.com to learn more about our services and how we can assist you.
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