Iowa & Nebraska Estate Planning Lawyer

Estate Planning That Actually Works in the Real World

Many people put off estate planning because they assume it’s only for the wealthy or that the process will be complicated and uncomfortable. In reality, estate planning is for anyone who owns a home, has children or dependents, has retirement accounts or savings, or wants to avoid probate and maintain control over financial and medical decisions.

At Checketts Law, we focus on practical, effective solutions. That means no unnecessary documents, no confusing legal jargon, and no pressure to purchase services you don’t need. We provide clear, straightforward planning tailored to your specific situation.

Revocable Living Trusts: A Smarter Way to Plan

For many clients, a revocable living trust is the most effective way to protect their estate and simplify things for their family. A properly structured trust allows you to maintain full control over your assets during your lifetime while ensuring a smooth transition after your death. It helps you avoid the time, expense, and public nature of probate, plan for incapacity, reduce the likelihood of family disputes, and keep your affairs private.

Contrary to what many people believe, trusts are not just for the wealthy. Most homeowners and families in Glenwood and southwest Iowa benefit significantly from a trust-based plan. As a Glenwood estate planning lawyer, I regularly help clients determine whether a trust is the right fit and design it to match their goals, family structure, and assets.

Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Complete Planning

While a revocable trust is often the centerpiece, we also prepare wills, durable financial powers of attorney, and healthcare powers of attorney. These documents work together to create a complete plan that protects you during your lifetime and your family after you’re gone. Without these protections in place, your loved ones may be forced into court proceedings simply to manage your affairs.

A Clear, Efficient, and Affordable Process

We’ve designed our process to be straightforward and respectful of your time. You can expect clear explanations of your options, flat-fee pricing with no surprises, and documents that are easy to understand and use. Most importantly, you’ll walk away knowing exactly what your plan does and how it works.

Serving Clients Across Iowa, Nebraska, and Arizona

Based in Glenwood, Iowa, we serve individuals and families throughout Iowa, as well as clients in Nebraska and Arizona — whether in person or remotely.

Start Planning Today

Putting off estate planning is easy, but the cost of waiting can be significant for your family. Schedule a free consultation today to discuss your situation and begin creating a plan that gives you confidence about the future.