Planning for the future doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. In fact, it can bring a sense of clarity and relief. With the right legal guidance, you can make thoughtful decisions that protect your assets, provide for your loved ones, and avoid unnecessary complications down the road.

Too often, people delay estate planning because they assume it’s only for the wealthy or elderly. But ‌anyone with a family, a home, or even a modest savings account has something worth protecting. And without a plan in place, state laws—not you—will decide what happens to your assets and who steps in if you become unable to make decisions for yourself.

That’s where an estate planning lawyer comes in. At Sowerby & Moustakis Law, we help New Hampshire families create clear, customized estate plans that reflect their wishes and protect their peace of mind. It’s not just about documents—it’s about making your intentions known and your future simpler.

Estate Planning is About More Than Just a Will

Most people think estate planning starts and ends with a will. But that’s just one part of the puzzle. A good estate plan looks at the whole picture—your assets, your family dynamics, and your long-term goals.

Here in New Hampshire, an estate plan can include several tools: trusts, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and more. Each serves a different purpose, and the right combination depends on your needs.

A trust might help you avoid probate and maintain privacy. A power of attorney can protect you if you become unable to manage your affairs. Without these tools in place, your family could face delays, extra costs, and court involvement during an already difficult time.

An estate planning lawyer will walk you through each option, explain what fits your situation, and help you put everything in writing. You’ll know your wishes are documented and enforceable under state law—no guesswork involved.

Avoid Common Mistakes

Online templates and DIY forms might seem like a shortcut, but they often create more problems than they solve. Estate planning is deeply personal, and small mistakes can have big consequences. A document that doesn’t meet New Hampshire’s legal standards could be thrown out in court. Vague language could lead to disputes. And assets not properly titled can end up in probate, even if your will says otherwise.

Here are a few common pitfalls we help clients avoid:

• Using outdated or noncompliant documents: State laws change, and forms from the internet don’t always reflect current New Hampshire requirements.
• Failing to update your plan: A divorce, remarriage, new child, or even the sale of a property can render parts of your plan ineffective.
• Leaving out a power of attorney or healthcare directive: These are critical if you become incapacitated, yet many DIY plans overlook them.
• Improper beneficiary designations: Retirement accounts and life insurance policies pass outside your will, and conflicting instructions can cause serious issues.
• Not funding your trust: Creating a trust without transferring assets into it is like building a safe and leaving your valuables on the porch.

We’ve seen families torn apart over unclear instructions or outdated documents. At Sowerby & Moustakis Law, we take time to get to know your situation, craft a plan tailored to your life, and help you keep it current.

Give Your Family the Gift of Clarity

The last thing your loved ones need during a difficult time is confusion or legal red tape. A well-prepared estate plan helps them move forward without second-guessing your intentions. It can also help avoid probate altogether, or at least make the process smoother and faster.

That’s especially true if you own property in more than one state, have a blended family, or want to include specific protections for children, charities, or pets. With clear instructions and proper planning, your legacy doesn’t have to be stressful—it can be an act of care and love.

Working with an estate planning lawyer allows you to anticipate complications and solve them before they arise. We guide you through sensitive decisions, offer practical advice, and help ensure your family won’t have to pick up the pieces later. You don’t have to figure it out alone.

Let’s Talk About Your Future

It’s never too early to start planning. Whether you’re building your first estate plan or updating an old one, we’re here to make the process clear, personal, and manageable. Contact Sowerby & Moustakis Law right now to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward a secure future.