Estate planning is the planning process, in anticipation of death, for the orderly distribution of an individual’s property to his or her designated beneficiaries. Comprehensive estate planning goes beyond mere preparation of a will, and can also involve financial, medical, business, and tax planning. Estate law governs wills, probate and other matters relevant to property distribution upon death. In this context, an estate is all property of an individual prior to distribution through a trust, will or intestacy. ‘Property’ includes both real and personal property. Real property refers to land and other structures permanently attached to land, such as buildings and fixtures. All other property is considered personal property, such as bank accounts, stock holdings, life insurance policies, furniture, and vehicles. Estate laws vary by jurisdiction.

• Estates Planning FAQs
  The American Bar Association answers frequently asked questions on Estates and Trusts.
• Estates and trusts
  Cornell University Law School, Legal Information Institute on Estates and Trusts
• Crash Course In Wills and Trust
  This course is a concise and practical guide to what everyone should know about the law of Wills and Trusts - as well as a range of other matters - before an estate plan is designed.
• Tax Law Changes for Gifts and Estates and Trusts
  IRS information on Estates and Trusts.
• American Association of Trusts, Estates and Elder Law Attorneys
  an invitation-only, professional association of estate planning and elder law attorneys from across the United States.

• Wills, Estates & Trust - Canadian Law
  This research guide on wills, estates and trusts covers executors and administrators, trusts, and drafting and administration of wills. The subject area is covered by many provincial statutes and case law is important. English texts provide context and background.
• Succession Law - Guide to French Law
  These notes address some issues which may otherwise arise if you die owning property in France. It is intended to address the general practice and procedure involved when selling your French real property.
• International Law Commission
  
• International Academy of Estate and Trust Law
  

• Do I really need a will?
  

  Estate planning is an important process that many individuals fail to think about until it’s too late if they think about it at all. Estate planning involves those people that are most important to you like your family and business partners as well as causes that are near and dear to you such as charitable organi..