Fearless Advocates. Trusted Allies.
Here's What Sets Beaton & Kiers, PLLC Apart
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A History of Wins
Our impressive record of favorable trial outcomes spans a wide range of complex cases.
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Deep Local Knowledge
With extensive understanding of New Hampshire laws, we're ready to fight for you.
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Full-Service Support
We offer comprehensive legal services for individuals and families in crisis.
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Trusted Locally
We've cultivated respected relationships and a solid reputation in the legal community.
Understanding the Importance of Estate Planning
Estate planning is not just about deciding who receives your assets; it also ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones are provided for. Many people believe that estate planning is only necessary for the wealthy or elderly, but everyone, regardless of age or financial status, can benefit from a comprehensive estate plan. Planning ahead protects your family, your interests, and your financial legacy.
Here are a few key reasons why estate planning should be a priority:
- Minimize family disputes: A well-drafted estate plan can help prevent conflicts among family members, ensuring your wishes are clear and legally enforceable.
- Control over asset distribution: With an estate plan, you have direct control over how and when your assets are distributed, avoiding the default rules of intestacy.
- Protection for minor children: If you have children, an estate plan allows you to designate guardians and ensure their financial needs are met.
- Reduce tax liabilities: Strategic estate planning can help reduce estate taxes and allow more of your assets to go to your heirs.
- Peace of mind: Having a plan in place gives you and your family peace of mind, knowing that everything is taken care of in case of unforeseen events.
Beyond the immediate benefits of asset protection and clarity for your loved ones, a carefully prepared estate plan is crucial for meeting specific requirements of New Hampshire law, especially if you own property or investments in Rockingham County. Proper planning can minimize delays in probate proceedings at the Rockingham County Probate Court, help you appoint trusted local agents for healthcare or financial powers of attorney, and reduce the administrative burden on your family during a time of loss. If you own a business or have unique family dynamics—such as blended families, children with differing needs, or charitable priorities—clear documentation ensures your legacy is handled according to your wishes, not just state guidelines. By planning now, you have more options, avoid last-minute decisions, and often save your heirs time and expense later.
At Beaton and Kiers, PLLC, our dedicated estate planning team guides you through the process, making sure your wishes are clearly expressed and your family's future is protected. Contact us today to learn more about creating a tailored estate plan that fits your unique needs.
Why Choose Beaton & Kiers for Estate Planning in Hampton?
At Beaton and Kiers, PLLC, we know that estate planning is more than paperwork—it's about securing your family's future and ensuring your wishes are carried out. Our estate planning attorneys provide personalized advice tailored to your situation. Whether you are planning for retirement, preparing a will, or establishing a trust, we are ready to help you at every stage.
What sets us apart in Hampton and surrounding areas?
- Customized strategies: We take the time to understand your goals and family dynamics, crafting customized estate plans that reflect your wishes and provide peace of mind.
- Experienced guidance: Our attorneys bring years of experience in estate law, so we can help you navigate complex regulations and avoid common pitfalls.
- Holistic approach: We consider all aspects of your financial and family situation, ensuring a comprehensive plan covers everything from assets to healthcare and more.
- Ongoing support: Estate planning is not a one-time event. We offer consultation and regular reviews of your plan to address any changes in your life or the law.
Working with an estate planning attorney Rockingham County residents trust means having a partner committed both to legal accuracy and personal service. We bring local knowledge and a deep understanding of laws that affect people in Hampton and the surrounding towns. Our clients benefit from our relationships with area professionals, including financial advisors, trustees, and accountants, so we can provide coordinated and effective strategies for complex estates. Since our practice focuses on solutions built for the local community, you receive guidance rooted in real experience with issues Rockingham County families often face. Whether you need options for multi-generational families, support for non-traditional households, or assistance with property across New Hampshire, we are able to offer solutions to fit your needs.
Knowledgeable Guidance You Can Trust
With over 50 years of combined experience, Attorneys Beaton and Kiers have dedicated their careers to helping families secure their futures through thoughtful, detailed estate planning. They approach every case with diligence, creativity, and a commitment to finding solutions that work best for you.
No two families are the same, and neither are their estate planning needs. Over the years, we have helped clients manage a wide range of situations, from straightforward wills to more complex plans involving trusts and guardianship. This experience allows us to anticipate potential challenges, offer innovative solutions, and provide practical answers to difficult questions.
Our estate planning lawyers in Hampton and Rockingham County can assist you with:- Comprehensive document review: Making sure all beneficiary designations, powers of attorney, and advance directives reflect your current wishes and follow state requirements.
- Long-term solutions: Developing plans for succession, charitable giving, and tax-efficient transfers to continue your legacy into the future.
- Coordinating with local resources: Working with trusted area professionals for probate filings, property appraisals, and business interests unique to Rockingham County clients.
We take the time to fully understand your goals and your family's specific situation. We know estate planning is about more than just legal documents—it is about creating a plan that protects your wishes and peace of mind. By focusing on every detail and tailoring our services to your priorities, we strive to give you confidence in the plan we build together.
How the Probate Process Works in Rockingham County
If you are starting your estate planning, understanding the probate process in Rockingham County can help you make informed decisions. Probate is the legal process where the court reviews a will, settles debts, and distributes assets to beneficiaries. In New Hampshire, these proceedings are managed through the Rockingham County Probate Court, which has its own procedures and requirements.
Many families are not familiar with the court's timelines, paperwork, or the steps involved until they experience probate for themselves. The process usually begins when the will and required forms are submitted to the courthouse in Brentwood, and an executor is formally appointed. The executor then addresses any debts and taxes, and assets are eventually distributed to beneficiaries. Simple estates may move quickly, but complications—such as disputes or property in another state—can extend the timeline if not carefully managed.
Working with a local estate attorney helps you:- File the correct probate petitions and documents for Rockingham County’s court system
- Navigate required notices to creditors and beneficiaries
- Avoid common errors that may delay the distribution of assets
- Resolve any will contests or disputes under local procedures
Our team’s familiarity with the Rockingham County Probate Court allows us to anticipate potential challenges, reduce stress, and make sure all legal requirements are followed. If you have questions about how your estate may be handled locally or how your plan can simplify or avoid probate, we will explain your options and help you feel secure about the next steps.
Don't wait until it's too late—start planning for your future today. Contact us to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help safeguard your legacy.
Planning for What Matters Most
Estate planning is about preserving what matters most to you. The decisions you make today will have a lasting impact on the people you care about most. Whether you are protecting your family’s financial well-being, planning for a loved one with special needs, or ensuring that your wishes are honored, your priorities become our priorities.
We pride ourselves on building long-term relationships with our clients. We are here to guide you not only through the planning process, but also when life changes. Adjusting your estate plan as your needs evolve is part of our commitment to being a reliable partner in your ongoing efforts to secure your future. From your first free consultation to finalizing your plan, your values and goals remain at the heart of our work.
As estate planning lawyers in Rockingham County, our clients often ask about the steps involved in updating their plans over time. Changes in family size, marriage or divorce, new property in southern New Hampshire, or updates in state estate tax law can all require plan revisions. By maintaining regular communication, we help you keep all aspects of your estate current so your intentions are protected, no matter what life brings. For clients with specific wishes for charitable giving, business succession, or dependent care, we make sure these elements are legally documented and included, so your legacy is not left to chance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Documents Do I Need for a Comprehensive Estate Plan in New Hampshire?
A comprehensive estate plan often includes a will, durable power of attorney, healthcare directive, and sometimes trusts. Depending on your family and financial situation, additional documents may be recommended to help ensure your goals are met and your estate is handled efficiently under New Hampshire law.
How Often Should I Update My Estate Plan?
You should review and update your estate plan whenever there are major changes in your life—such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or new property ownership. Even without big changes, reviewing your plan every three to five years helps keep your wishes and local legal requirements up to date.
Can Estate Planning Help Me Avoid Probate in Rockingham County?
With the right strategies—such as using living trusts or joint ownership—certain assets can pass outside of probate, streamlining the process for your heirs. An estate planning attorney can review your situation and suggest a plan that meets your wishes while reducing the need for court proceedings.
Our lawyers are available to clients 24/7. Call (603) 769-3491 today. We can meet either in person at our Hampton office or virtually.
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"Compassionate Representation"
I would wholeheartedly recommend Ms Kiers, she is an outstanding lawyer with a stellar reputation.- E.B. -
"Above and Beyond"
It’s evident that she is knowledgeable about the law, is committed to bringing fair justice, and is efficient in her approach to resolving cases.- K.S. -
"Exceptional Results"
Attorney Amy Beaton provided exceptional results! She made sure the whole process was as stress-free as possible. Thank you! Highly recommend!- Amy J. -
"True Advocate"
Exceptional legal expertise. A true advocate for justice.
- A.G. -
"Expertise of Law Was Apparent"
From the first phone call, I was put at ease. Choosing Beaton & Kiers to help in a moment of need is a great choice that I recommend.- G.M. -
"Highly Recommended!"
Beaton & Kiers had been highly recommended to me by others in the field. Now, I understand why. As soon as I met Amy and Larissa, I began to feel safe.- J.F. -
"Fantastic Legal Advocate"
Could not recommend Amy more highly to anyone in need of representation.- B.V. -
"Professional and Compassionate"
She is a true advocate and did all within her power and ability to assist in the resolution of my legal issue. I would not hesitate to reach out to Amy and Beaton & Kiers, PLLC in the future.- D.L.
Estate Law FAQs
We'll Be Your Resource
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 603-769-3491 today!
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Who needs to create an estate plan?All adults need an estate plan, regardless of the size of their estate or their family relationships. Even young adults without many assets need, at a minimum, powers of attorney and advance directives to allow a trusted person to make decisions for them in case they become incapacitated. Of course, it’s also important for families with young children and people with significant assets or complicated family relationships to have an estate plan.
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Should I create a will or trust?Whether you need a will or a trust (or both) depends on your circumstances. If you want to avoid probate, a trust will achieve that, but a will does not. If you are leaving property to minor children, a trust allows you to appoint someone to manage their inherited assets until they are adults and mature enough to do so. There are many different types of trusts for specific purposes such as tax planning or special needs planning. While trusts do have many advantages, not everyone needs one, so consult with an estate planning attorney about what’s right for you.
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What does an elder law attorney do?An elder law attorney focuses on areas of the law that affect older people, such as estate planning, long-term care planning, Medicaid planning, and guardianship and conservatorship.
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When should I hire an elder law attorney?You should consult with an elder law attorney if you want to plan ahead for your own needs as you age, such as putting in place powers of attorney and advance directives in the event you become unable to manage your own affairs. An elder law attorney can also help when an older family member becomes legally incapacitated, needs to enter a nursing home on an urgent basis, or has been the victim of elder abuse or financial exploitation.
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How much does estate planning cost?As you can imagine, the cost of estate planning depends on a number of factors, including the complexity of the assets in the estate. In general, though, will-based estate plans are less expensive than trust-based plans. At Beaton & Kiers, we use the initial consultation to evaluate your unique needs, after which we can quote you a flat fee for your planning so you’ll have certainty about your legal costs. Estate planning is an investment, but most people are pleasantly surprised to learn how reasonable a customized estate plan is.
