Experienced attorneys dedicated to providing effective, economic legal service to the community.

Offering A Wide Range Of Estate Planning Services

For over 25 years, the estate planning attorneys at Wilson, Stavros, Rowsey & Thomas, have guided our clients through administrating wills and the estate planning process. Our team of seasoned lawyers has decades of experience in setting order to our clients’ affairs. We take pride in the straightforward manner in which we design plans that efficiently transfer possessions to the appropriate parties.

When you retain our services, we will work together to explain the steps involved in setting up an estate plan that is right for you. We will explain how to structure your plan so there is a smooth transfer of assets and the possibility of conflicts between your heirs is minimized.

Efficient, Reliable Property Transfer With Wills And Trusts

Our Ashland firm offers extensive estate planning and probate services. The two primary legal instruments in estate planning are wills and trusts.

A will contains a detailed list of your assets and names heirs who will receive those assets upon your passing. Wills should be as detailed and clearly worded as possible to avoid any confusion or disputes among heirs. Creating a well-crafted, detailed will can save your loved ones considerable time, money and headache during the probate process.

In Kentucky, a will may contain:

A designated executor of your estate who will ensure that the provisions of your will are carried out
A named personal guardian for your minor children (if applicable)
A designated person to manage any property that you have left to your minor children until they reach adulthood (if applicable)

Many estate plans also include one or more trusts. A trust is a highly customizable legal instrument to help you pass property and assets to intended heirs and beneficiaries without disclosing the details of your estate in the public record. If created correctly, a trust can minimize tax liabilities, eliminate or reduce the need for probate and allow you to specify how and when your assets are distributed.

Our Estate Planning Services Promote Peace Of Mind For You And Your Beneficiaries

A good estate plan should address issues you may face if you become incapacitated, detailing the funding of your long-term care needs. During your initial consultation, we would discuss the following tools and processes:

Every estate plan is different, but yours should cover any contingencies you may face. We can advise you on legal solutions that will best benefit you and your loved ones.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kentucky Estate Planning

Having a clear estate plan can help you manage important decision-making during challenging times. To address common concerns and provide accurate guidance based on Kentucky law, our team has answered some of the most frequent estate planning questions that arise.

When should I start estate planning?

Estate planning should begin immediately to secure your property, protect your family and preserve your personal wishes. Many people start the process when they purchase a home, get married or have children because these events create new responsibilities. Planning early helps ensure that your assets pass according to your instructions and that someone you trust can manage your affairs if you become unable to do so.

Do I need a lawyer to create a will in Kentucky?

Kentucky does not require an attorney to draft a will, but legal guidance can prevent costly mistakes. A lawyer can help create a will that meets all statutory requirements, uses enforceable language and reflects your specific goals. Self‑prepared wills may contain unclear terms or errors that lead to probate delays or will disputes. An attorney can also coordinate beneficiary designations, property titles and tax considerations to strengthen your plan.

How often should I update my estate plan?

Estate plans should be reviewed regularly, particularly after major life changes that can affect how your documents operate. Marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, a significant change in assets or the death of a beneficiary are common reasons to update your plan.

Regular reviews also help ensure that your named executor, trustee, and agents are appropriate for your current circumstances. Even without major changes, many families revisit their plans every few years to confirm accuracy.

How can estate planning help with nursing home or long-term care costs?

Long‑term care needs can introduce significant financial strain, and early planning helps protect assets while maintaining eligibility for programs such as Medicaid. Kentucky’s Medicaid rules include strict income and resource limits, along with a five‑year lookback period for transfers.

A lawyer can help you structure asset ownership, prepare advance directives, and evaluate tools such as irrevocable trusts to support your long‑term care goals. Proper planning also helps prevent penalties that arise from improper transfers or incomplete documentation.

Reach A Qualified Estate Planning Lawyer Today

We invite you to fill out our online contact form or call us at 606-618-0929. We offer free initial consultations.