Guiding You with Care, Persistence, and a Commitment to Protect What Matters Most
Welcome to The Law Office of Erin Baker Edgar, PLLC, a premier estate planning firm in Raleigh, NC, dedicated to safeguarding the future of your family with compassionate and comprehensive estate planning. Our mission is clear: to support, empower, and protect your loved ones through all of life’s challenges, from unexpected loss to navigating complex family dynamics.
Our Practices
Legacy Planning
Protect your family’s financial and emotional well-being with custom-designed wills and trusts that reflect your unique values and priorities.
Special Needs Trusts
We provide specialized planning to ensure that loved ones with disabilities receive the essential care and support they need without compromising other legal benefits.
Estate Administration
Navigate the complex process of estate administration with our guidance, ensuring that your loved one’s legacy is honored and preserved.
Guardianship and Protection for Children
Secure your children’s future by establishing guardianships that protect them when you cannot be present.
Health Care and Financial Directives
Ensure that only trusted individuals make crucial decisions on your behalf during unexpected medical and financial situations.
Guardianship and Protection for Children
Secure your children’s future by establishing guardianships that protect them when you cannot be present.
Health Care and Financial Directives
Ensure that only trusted individuals make crucial decisions on your behalf during unexpected medical and financial situations.
Advocating with Strength and Expertise
What truly sets us apart in Raleigh is our unwavering dedication to turning adversity into strength. Erin’s unique perspective as a totally blind attorney has led her to develop innovative, efficient, and adaptive strategies for estate planning. Her personal and professional journey equips her to advocate effectively for families, especially those with disabled loved ones.
How We Can Help Secure Your Family’s Future
Erin Baker Edgar, known as the Caring Attorney, combines deep professional expertise with personal insights from her own journey as a totally blind individual who grew up with special needs. Her experiences have instilled a profound understanding of self-advocacy and resilience, shaping her approach to protecting and caring for families facing similar challenges.
Our firm focuses on creating personalized Legacy Plans that honor your deepest values, detailing critical aspects such as child and adult guardianship arrangements, wills, and special needs trusts. These plans transcend traditional legal documents; they are a commitment to ensuring that your family thrives regardless of life’s uncertainties.
“Growing up with special needs taught me the importance of resilience. These experiences fuel my passion to protect and care for your loved ones.”
— Erin Baker Edgar
Erin’s Commitment to You
“If we begin working together, I will not simply be your attorney; I will be a compassionate advocate who understands the trials and triumphs of living with a disability. Just as my parents fought tirelessly for my opportunities, I pledge to do the same for your family. Together, we will build a legacy of strength, care, and perseverance that endures for generations.”
General Estate Planning FAQ
The information provided in this FAQ section is designed to offer general guidance and answer common questions about estate planning. It does not constitute legal advice, nor does it specifically address the laws of any particular state. Estate planning laws vary by state, and your individual circumstances may require personalized advice. For detailed guidance tailored to your specific situation and your state’s laws, please consult a qualified estate planning attorney in your area.
Q: What is estate planning, and why is it important for families?
A: Estate planning is the process of making legal arrangements for what happens to your assets and loved ones after you pass away or if you become unable to manage your affairs. It ensures your wishes are carried out, prevents legal complications, and provides financial security for your family. Without a plan, the state decides how your assets are distributed, which may not align with your wishes.
Q: What happens if I dont have an estate plan in place?
A: If you dont have a plan, state laws (called intestacy laws) determine who inherits your assets. This process can be costly, time-consuming, and may not reflect your wishes. Without a plan, minor children may end up with guardians chosen by the court instead of someone you trust.
Q: Do I need a will, a trust, or both?
A: A will states how your assets will be distributed after you die and allows you to name a guardian for minor children. A trust helps manage and protect assets while youre alive and after you pass. Trusts can help avoid probate and provide better control over how your assets are used. Many families benefit from having both.
Q: How do I choose an executor or trustee?
A: An executor (for a will) and a trustee (for a trust) are responsible for managing your estate. Choose someone trustworthy, organized, and financially responsible. Many people choose a family member, close friend, or a professional, such as an attorney or financial institution.
Q: What is the difference between a will-based and trust-based estate plan?
A: A will-based plan directs asset distribution through probate court, while a trust-based plan keeps assets out of probate and offers more control. Trusts can be useful if you want to protect assets, minimize taxes, or provide for a loved one over time.
Q: What is a power of attorney, and do I need one?
A: A power of attorney (POA) allows someone you trust to make financial or medical decisions for you if you become incapacitated. Without one, your family may have to go to court to gain legal authority to help manage your affairs.
Q: How often should I update my estate plan?
A: Review your estate plan every 3-5 years or when major life events occur, such as marriage, divorce, having children, or changes in financial circumstances. Keeping your plan up to date ensures it reflects your current wishes.
Q: How do estate taxes impact my estate plan?
A: Most families wont owe federal estate taxes, but some states have their own estate or inheritance taxes. Proper planning can help reduce or eliminate tax burdens on your heirs. Trusts and gifting strategies can also help protect your wealth.
Q: Can I protect my assets from probate?
A: Yes! Using living trusts, beneficiary designations, and jointly owned property can help your assets transfer smoothly to loved ones without going through probate court. A properly funded trust is one of the best ways to avoid probate.
Q: How do I start the estate planning process?
A: The best way to start is by meeting with an estate planning attorney to discuss your goals and family situation. Youll need to decide who will manage your affairs, how you want assets distributed, and who will care for minor children. A lawyer will help draft legally binding documents to protect your wishes.
FREE GUIDE
If You Already Have an Estate Plan, Check for These Gaps First
Most estate plans aren’t wrong—they’re just out of sync with real life. As life changes, plans can quietly fall out of alignment, creating confusion at the exact moment your family needs clarity.
Download our short guide to discover:
✓ What happens if you’re unable to make decisions
✓ Why a will alone doesn’t cover everything
✓ How to make sure your plan supports your life today
Let’s Build a Resilient Future Together
We invite you to connect with us to explore how we can help protect and nurture your family’s future. At The Law Office of Erin Baker Edgar, PLLC, we are more than legal advisors—we are your partners in building a secure, loving, and resilient future for those who matter most.