What is Estate Planning and Why Should You Do It?
December 9, 2021

Estate planning is not just for the wealthy, and not just for later in life. A good estate plan does much more than direct the distribution of your property after your death. From providing medical directives, to naming someone to care for your minor children, to identifying a person to make legal and financial decisions for you if you are unable to do so – estate planning is critical to your peace of mind, at any stage of life.


What is estate planning? 


An estate plan conveys in writing what you want to happen to your property and assets after your death, and also identifies who can make legal, financial, and medical decisions for you if you are unable to do so.


If you don’t provide written directives for what you want to happen in the case of your incapacitation or death, the state’s laws will govern your estate. For example, Vermont's intestacy laws will determine who inherits your assets. A court can appoint a conservator to manage your decisions if you are unable to or can appoint a guardian for your minor children if needed. Intestacy laws are complex – do not assume that the results will be what you would have chosen. Furthermore, this can be a lengthy and expensive process for your heirs, and your assets will be frozen until it is completed.


In most cases, the main component of your estate plan will be your will. A will names an executor and directs how to distribute your property after your death. It can also identify a guardian for your minor children, should you pass away without a surviving spouse. Depending on the size and complexity of your estate, other strategies aimed at protecting your wealth or preserving your family’s wealth over the long term may also be appropriate. A comprehensive estate plan should also:


  • Ensure that all financial accounts with named beneficiaries (annuities, life insurance policies, IRAs, etc.) are up to date;
  • Explore ways to minimize the tax burden on you and your heirs;
  • Address your wishes with regard to charitable giving;
  • Identify a person(s) to make legal, financial, and/or medical decisions for you; and
  • State your wishes with regard to medical treatment.


Contact a Middlebury Estate Planning Lawyer Today


At Deppman Law, our highly-skilled and experienced estate planning team can help make this process manageable, and ensure that your estate plan is updated as your circumstances change. By taking the time to plan, you can protect your assets, your loved ones, and your peace of mind. Contact Benj and Lesley today for a confidential consultation about your case. 

Protecting Your Small Business from Legal Disputes Before They Start

December 16, 2025
Running a small business involves balancing opportunity and risk. While disputes can’t always be avoided, many legal problems can be prevented with proactive planning and clear communication. Here are several ways small business owners can reduce legal risk before issues arise. Choose the Right Business Structure The legal structure of your business affects liability, taxes, and operations. Forming the right entity can help protect personal assets and clarify ownership responsibilities from the outset. Use Clear, Written Agreements Handshake deals and informal arrangements often lead to misunderstandings. Well-drafted contracts with customers, vendors, and partners help set expectations and reduce disputes over payment, performance, deliverables, or scope of work. Review Commercial Leases Carefully Commercial leases often contain long-term obligations and hidden costs. Understanding lease terms before signing can prevent costly surprises and future conflicts with landlords. Address Employment Issues Early Clear policies, proper classification of workers, and consistent practices can help prevent disputes with employees or contractors. Early legal guidance can help ensure compliance and reduce exposure. Plan for Disagreements Even healthy businesses encounter conflict. Including dispute resolution provisions in contracts and addressing issues promptly can help resolve problems before they escalate into litigation. Proactive legal planning isn’t about expecting failure—it’s about building a strong foundation that allows your business to operate with confidence and flexibility. Call Deppman Law PLC If you own or are starting a small business and want to reduce legal risk before problems arise, Deppman Law PLC can help. We work with Vermont business owners to put practical safeguards in place and address issues early. Contact Deppman Law PLC to schedule a consultation and protect your business’s future.

When Should You Talk to a Lawyer? Common Situations Where Early Advice Matters

November 17, 2025
People frequently wait to contact a lawyer until a problem feels urgent or unavoidable. By that point, costs may be higher and stress levels are often elevated. In many situations, speaking with a lawyer early can help prevent small issues from becoming much larger ones. Here are some common scenarios where early legal advice can make a meaningful difference. Before Signing a Contract Whether it’s a lease, business agreement, vendor contract, or settlement document, contracts carry long-term consequences. A quick review before signing can help identify unclear terms, unexpected obligations, or risks you may not have noticed. During Major Life Changes Events like marriage, divorce, having children, or buying property often trigger legal considerations. Early guidance can help ensure important steps—such as updating estate plans or addressing property rights—aren’t overlooked. When Starting or Growing a Business Choosing the right business structure, drafting agreements, and understanding liability risks are much easier at the beginning than after problems arise. Early legal planning can protect both personal and business assets. If a Dispute Is Developing If tensions are rising with a tenant, business partner, neighbor, or family member, early advice can help you understand your rights and avoid actions that could escalate the situation or weaken your position. After an Injury or Property Incident Whether you were injured or someone was hurt on your property, early legal input can help preserve important information and guide next steps before statements are made or deadlines are missed. Talking to a lawyer doesn’t mean you’re headed for court. In many cases, it’s about understanding your options, clarifying risks, and making informed decisions before a situation becomes more complicated. Call Deppman Law PLC If you’re facing a legal question or simply wondering whether you should speak with an attorney, Deppman Law PLC is here to help. We offer practical guidance designed to address issues early and thoughtfully. Contact Deppman Law PLC to schedule a consultation and get clear answers before problems grow.