about us
Wills & Trusts for Alexandria Families—Personalized, Legally Sound Documents
Unsure If You Need a Will, a Trust, or Both in Virginia?
It’s common to wonder what happens if you don’t have a will, or whether setting up a living trust makes sense for your family. A will is a legal document that directs who gets your assets and who cares for minor children after your death; it must go through probate, which is Virginia’s court process for validating your wishes and transferring property. A living trust can help you avoid probate altogether, keep your affairs private, and ensure a smooth transfer of assets if you become incapacitated or after you’re gone. At The Soc Law Office, we take time to understand your family and finances, then recommend whether a will, trust, or a combination best fits your goals in Northern Virginia.
What’s the Difference? Wills vs. Trusts in Virginia
If you pass away without a will in Virginia, state law decides who inherits your property—which may not match your wishes and can cause stress or conflict for loved ones. Wills are subject to probate, which can take months, but Virginia does allow self-proving wills (signed with witnesses and notarized) for smoother processing. A living trust, if properly set up and funded, lets your assets pass directly to your beneficiaries, skipping probate and maintaining privacy. Virginia doesn’t have a state estate tax, but larger estates may face federal taxes—our firm walks you through all the considerations, so you’re confident in your plan.
Our Process: Clear, Caring Guidance Every Step
Creating a will or trust is about more than paperwork—it’s about protecting the people and priorities that matter most. Our process provides clear guidance and careful attention at every step, so your wishes are understood, documented properly, and legally secure.
Step 1:Initial Planning Conversation
We begin with a thoughtful discussion to understand your family situation, assets, and long-term goals so your plan reflects what matters most to you.
Step 2:Clear, Plain-Language Guidance
We explain what a will or trust can accomplish in straightforward terms, including guidance on guardianship decisions, charitable giving, and protections for loved ones.
Step 3:Custom-Drafted Legal Documents
Every will, trust, and power of attorney is drafted by our attorney—never generic forms—ensuring your documents reflect your exact wishes and comply with Virginia law.
Step 4:Virginia-Specific Legal Compliance
We ensure your documents meet all current Virginia legal requirements, including proper witnessing, execution rules, and recent statutory changes.
Step 5:Review and Update of Existing Plans
If you already have a will or trust, we review it carefully, explain whether updates are needed, and make sure everything remains valid and effective.
Benefits of Working With The Soc Law Office
Personalized Attention
Every plan is custom—no two families or estates are the same, and your documents should reflect that. Clients often say, “Liz took the time to explain every option and never rushed my questions.”
Transparent, Upfront Pricing
We offer a flat-rate estate package for most will and trust plans, so you know costs from the start. No surprises or hidden fees—pricing is listed clearly on our website.
Clarity and Confidence
Legal terms and paperwork can feel overwhelming, but we make it easy to understand. Clients leave knowing their family is protected and their wishes will be honored.
Local Knowledge, Real Results
As a Fairfax County native and experienced Virginia attorney, Liz understands both the law and the realities of local probate courts. We’ve helped many Alexandria families avoid court hassles and keep assets out of lengthy legal battles.
Common Questions About Wills & Trusts
Which is right for me: a will or a trust?
It depends on your goals. A will covers the basics and is often enough for simple estates, but if you want to avoid probate, maintain privacy, or provide for young children’s long-term needs, a trust may be the best fit. We’ll walk you through all the pros and cons.
Can I just write a will myself?
DIY wills are risky—mistakes with signing, witnesses, or wording can make them invalid. Virginia has strict legal requirements, and a lawyer ensures your wishes are clearly documented and legally enforceable.
What is probate, and should I try to avoid it?
Probate is the court-supervised process for distributing a person’s assets after death. It can be time-consuming, and details become public, but not everyone needs to avoid it. We’ll advise based on your situation and help you minimize hassle where possible.
What happens if I already have a will from years ago?
We offer will reviews and updates—laws change, as do your life circumstances. It’s smart to check that your documents still match your intentions.
How does the process work with your firm?
We start with a no-pressure consultation. If you move forward, we gather the details, prepare drafts, and meet again to review and sign everything—clear, simple, and designed to give you peace of mind.
Take the Next Step to Protect What Matters Most
Don’t leave your family’s future to chance or to the courts. Whether you need to create a new will or trust, update an old one, or just get answers about your options, The Soc Law Office is here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Schedule a consultation today and discover how straightforward the estate planning process can be.