Estate Planning

Planning for the future is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are honored. At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we provide comprehensive estate planning services to help you create a plan tailored to your needs and goals.

FREE GUIDE TO ESTATE PLANNING


THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ESTATE PLANNING IN VIRGINIA


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Estate planning at its core is planning for the future. It empowers individuals now to have future wishes and decisions regarding their health, finances, and family laid out in the case of disability or death. When we talk of estate planning we usually talk about trusts, will, power of attorney, and health care directives.



Secure your legacy and give your family peace of mind. Contact us today to begin your estate planning journey.

Types of Estate Plans

Estate planning isn’t one-size-fits-all. At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we help you create a customized plan to meet your unique goals, whether you want to provide for loved ones, minimize taxes, or protect your assets. Here are the most common types of estate plans we can assist with:


  • Trust Based Plan: A trust is a legal document that has three parties to it - settlor (creator of the trust), trustee (manager of the trust property), and beneficiary (consumer of the trust property).
  • Will Based Plan: A will is a legal document in which the testator (creator of the will) gives directions to an executor or personal representative regarding how to distribute their property to their heirs after they have passed away.
  • Power of Attorney: While a will or trust typically contemplates the death of the trustee or testator, a power of attorney (POA) contemplates the incapacity of the principal (creator of the POA).
  • Advanced Medical Directive: An advanced medical directive (AMD) includes two parts - a healthcare power of attorney and a living will.


A SMITH | ASHCRAFT attorney will help you understand the differences in the types of trusts, the legal consequences of each type of trust, and direction as to what will work best for your situation.

Learn More

Types of Estate Plans

Estate planning isn’t one-size-fits-all. At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we help you create a customized plan to meet your unique goals, whether you want to provide for loved ones, minimize taxes, or protect your assets. Here are the most common types of estate plans we can assist with:


  • Trust Based Plan: A trust is a legal document that has three parties to it - settlor (creator of the trust), trustee (manager of the trust property), and beneficiary (consumer of the trust property).
  • Will Based Plan: A will is a legal document in which the testator (creator of the will) gives directions to an executor or personal representative regarding how to distribute their property to their heirs after they have passed away.
  • Power of Attorney: While a will or trust typically contemplates the death of the trustee or testator, a power of attorney (POA) contemplates the incapacity of the principal (creator of the POA).
  • Advanced Medical Directive: An advanced medical directive (AMD) includes two parts - a healthcare power of attorney and a living will.


A SMITH | ASHCRAFT attorney will help you understand the differences in the types of trusts, the legal consequences of each type of trust, and direction as to what will work best for your situation.

Learn More

We are ready to help you plan for your future!

Call or text us at 804-773-1751

Updating Your Plan

Life changes. So should your estate plan, you should update your plan anytime there is a significant life events, such as:


  • Birth
  • Death
  • Graduation
  • Relocation
  • Inheritance
  • and more


If something has changed, your plan ought to as well. Smith Ashcraft can discuss your new situation and advise you on any modifications to make to your estate plan. 

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Updating Your Plan

Life changes. So should your estate plan, you should update your plan anytime there is a significant life events, such as:


  • Birth
  • Death
  • Graduation
  • Relocation
  • Inheritance
  • and more


If something has changed, your plan ought to as well. Smith Ashcraft can discuss your new situation and advise you on any modifications to make to your estate plan. 

Learn More

We are ready to help you plan for your future!

Call or text us at 804-773-1751

Specialty Trusts

Did you know there are a number of other types of trusts that may be a good fit or solution for you?  If you are an enthusiast or collector, a specialty trust may make sense for:


  • Pet owner
  • Gun owner or collector
  • Government assistance
  • Charitable Trusts
  • Special Needs Trusts
  • Business Owners


If you think a specialty trust may be beneficial for you, please reach out and we will get you started in the right direction.

Learn More

Specialty Trusts

Did you know there are a number of other types of trusts that may be a good fit or solution for you?  If you are an enthusiast or collector, a specialty trust may make sense for:


  • Pet owner
  • Gun owner or collector
  • Government assistance
  • Charitable Trusts
  • Special Needs Trusts
  • Business Owners


If you think a specialty trust may be beneficial for you, please reach out and we will get you started in the right direction.

Learn More

Will & Trust Disputes

Disputing someone’s estate plan, whether it’s a trust or will can be complicated. It’s not only legally complicated, but the emotions associated with a will or trust dispute are also complicated.


Given the legal complexity and practical difficulty in obtaining evidence for a will or trust dispute, it is important to discuss your situation with a competent attorney.


SMITH | ASHCRAFT not only has the legal experience to assist with these matters, Smith Ashcraft has the experience in dealing with the complex emotions associated with these kinds of disputes. 

Learn More

Will & Trust Disputes

Disputing someone’s estate plan, whether it’s a trust or will can be complicated. It’s not only legally complicated, but the emotions associated with a will or trust dispute are also complicated.


Given the legal complexity and practical difficulty in obtaining evidence for a will or trust dispute, it is important to discuss your situation with a competent attorney.


SMITH | ASHCRAFT not only has the legal experience to assist with these matters, Smith Ashcraft has the experience in dealing with the complex emotions associated with these kinds of disputes. 

Learn More

FREE GUIDE TO ESTATE PLANNING


THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ESTATE PLANNING IN VIRGINIA


GET YOUR FREE GUIDE NOW >

Why choose us?

Estate planning is a deeply personal process, and choosing the right attorney makes all the difference. At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we bring expertise, compassion, and a client-focused approach to every estate plan we create.


Your legacy deserves careful planning and expert guidance. Contact SMITH | ASHCRAFT today to see how we can help protect what matters most.

Your Future Is Now!

Secure Your Legacy: Comprehensive Estate Planning for Peace of Mind

Your Future Is Now!

Secure Your Legacy: Comprehensive Estate Planning for Peace of Mind

Why choose us?

Estate planning is a deeply personal process, and choosing the right attorney makes all the difference. At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we bring expertise, compassion, and a client-focused approach to every estate plan we create.


Your legacy deserves careful planning and expert guidance. Contact SMITH | ASHCRAFT today to see how we can help protect what matters most.

Our Focus

Strategic Litigation

At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we believe that every case deserves a tailored approach designed to achieve the best possible outcome. Our commitment to strategic litigation means we carefully assess each client's unique needs, set clear goals, and craft a precise, powerful legal strategy. From in-depth case analysis to rigorous advocacy, we employ our expertise and insights to navigate complexities, anticipate challenges, and pursue success at every step. Let us be the decisive advantage in your corner.

Aggressive Defense

At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we don’t just defend—we fight. Our aggressive defense approach means we leave no stone unturned in challenging every aspect of the case against you. From thorough investigation to forceful courtroom advocacy, we take a proactive stance to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome. When the stakes are high, you need a team that’s prepared to push back. Trust us to stand by you with a fierce commitment to your defense.

Thoughtful Planning

At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we understand that successful legal outcomes start with careful planning. Our approach is rooted in thoughtfulness, ensuring that every step of your case is meticulously analyzed to anticipate challenges and seize opportunities. Whether you’re navigating complex family matters, preparing for the future, or seeking resolution in sensitive disputes, our commitment to thoughtful, strategic planning gives you the confidence of a clear path forward. Let us help you make informed decisions today for a stronger tomorrow.

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At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we’re here to listen, understand your concerns, and help you navigate the next steps with confidence.  Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward a clear path forward.

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There's no where in Virginia that we don’t know

At SMITH | ASHCRAFT, we are proud to offer comprehensive legal services throughout Virginia. Whether you’re in Richmond, Northern Virginia, the far reaches of Roanoke, or any other part of the state, our experienced team is here to provide experienced representation tailored to your unique needs. No matter where you are in Virginia, we’re committed to delivering the same high level of service and dedication to each client, ensuring your case receives the attention it deserves.



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