A35: Basic Estate Planning - 3 units
Suzanne Reed Bednar
Fri. 9:30–11:00 a.m. - Sept. 12, 19, 26, Oct. 3
Meadows Presbyterian Church - Limit: 30

Suzanne Reed Bednar works with McGuireWoods LLP in the Private Wealth Services Group, practicing in the areas of Estate Planning and Estate Administration. Bednar has a B.S. from JMU, an M.S. from Gannon University, and a J.D. from UVa.

The course will cover three main topics: basic estate planning, tax planning, and estate administration and probate. The section on basic estate planning will cover wills, trusts, powers of attorney and advance medical directives. Subjects to be covered include the requirements for an executed will, factors to consider in designing trusts and how to choose an executor, trustee, guardian or other agent. The tax planning section will be explored in two classes with an overview of the current estate and gift tax system and available credits and deductions. In addition, we will look at various techniques used by estate planners to minimize estate tax liability. The third section will explain the probate procedure in Virginia and discuss steps necessary to administer an estate.