The Complete Idiot's Guide to Wills and Estates [With CDROM] (Complete Idiot's Guides)

Maple (business law and tax, U. of Indianapolis) introduces the world of estate planning to people who would really rather be thinking about something else beside who is going to get all their stuff when they die. He recommends that people set up initial and perhaps rudimentary provisions to get a feel for the landscape early enough that they can make adjustments in accordance with growing understanding or changing conditions. Among his topics are life insurance, the basic will and a few extras, looking after minor children, how charitable donations can save money, keeping wealth within the family, and a durable power of attorney and health care directives. The disk contains forms for drafting a will or trust. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Stephen Maple is an associate professor of business law and tax at the University of Indianapolis. Named university teacher of the year, Mr. Maple has been an attorney in Indiana since 1969, practicing primarily in estate planning and probate. A member of the American Bar Association Real Property, Probate, and Trust Law section, he has written over 60 articles and book reviews, and is author of The Complete Idiot's Guide(r) to Law for Small Business Owners.