American Estate Planning Series
Georgia Estate Planning: A Clear Path to Getting Started
Learn how estate planning works in Georgia and take the next step with confidence.
A Simple Path to Georgia Estate Planning
Estate planning doesn’t have to be complicated. Most people can break the process down into a few clear steps.
Step 1: Understand the Basics
Learn how wills, trusts, and probate work in Georgia.
Step 2: Get Organized and Make Decisions
Decide who should receive your assets and who will act on your behalf.
Step 3: Create and Put Your Plan in Place
Use the right documents and guidance to complete your plan.
Not sure where to start?
What Makes Georgia Estate Planning Different
Estate planning in Georgia follows many of the same principles as other states—but there are important differences that can affect how your plan works.
Probate and the Court Process
Georgia has its own probate procedures and timelines. Some estates can be handled relatively efficiently, while others may require more formal court involvement.
Understanding how probate works can help you decide whether a simple will is sufficient or whether additional planning may make sense.
No Georgia Estate Tax
Georgia does not have a state-level estate tax.
However, federal estate tax rules may still apply for higher net worth individuals, and income tax and capital gains considerations can still impact how assets are transferred.
Wills vs. Trusts in Georgia
Many people assume a trust is always necessary—but that isn’t always the case.
In Georgia, a will-based plan may be appropriate for some individuals, while others benefit from a trust-based approach depending on their goals, assets, and family situation.
Planning for Incapacity
Estate planning isn’t just about what happens after death.
In Georgia, powers of attorney and healthcare directives allow you to name someone to make financial and medical decisions if you’re unable to do so.
Keeping Your Plan Aligned
Even a well-designed estate plan can fall out of date.
Changes in family circumstances, assets, or laws can affect how your plan works—so periodic review is important to keep everything aligned.
Ready to take the next step?
Georgia Estate Planning Videos
These short videos walk through how estate planning works specifically in Georgia—so you can understand your options and take the next step with confidence.
Georgia Estate Planning Attorney | Meet Adam Hicks
Will vs. Trust in Georgia: What’s the Difference?
How Probate Works in Georgia (Step-by-Step)
What Assets Go Through Probate in Georgia — and What Don’t?
Who Should I Name as Executor in Georgia?
Do You Really Need a Living Trust? A Simple Decision Framework
Meet Your Georgia Estate Planning Attorney
If you live in Georgia and want guidance tailored to your situation, you can connect with a local estate planning attorney who understands Georgia law and planning strategies.
Adam S. Hicks
Lanier Legacy Group LLC
Gainesville, Georgia
Phone: 770-282-4541
Website: https://lanierlegacylaw.com/
About Adam
Adam S. Hicks is an estate planning attorney serving individuals and families throughout Georgia. He focuses on helping clients create clear, practical plans involving wills, trusts, and incapacity planning.
He founded Lanier Legacy Group with an emphasis on client education, believing that families make better decisions when they truly understand their options. His approach is designed to simplify complex decisions and help clients move forward with confidence.
As the Georgia Contributing Author for the American Estate Planning Series, Adam helps ensure that the information provided is accurate, practical, and aligned with Georgia law.
Georgia Resources
We are building a growing library of Georgia-specific estate planning resources, including:
Step-by-step educational videos
Clear explanations of Georgia estate planning laws
Practical guidance to help you take the next step
Choose Your Next Step
Not sure where to begin? Choose the path that fits your situation.
Just Getting Started
Learn the basics
Understand wills vs. trusts
See what most people actually need
Simple videos to help you understand how estate planning works in Georgia.
Ready to Put a Plan Together
Identify your goals and priorities
Organize your assets and decisions
Work through a simple plan
A simple, step-by-step guide to help you organize your plan before meeting with an attorney.
Looking for Legal Help
Speak with a Georgia estate planning attorney
Get advice tailored to your situation
Move forward with a clear plan
Connect with an experienced attorney and take the next step with confidence.
Georgia Estate Planning Resources
Explore more Georgia-specific videos, answers to common questions, and additional resources.
This page is part of the American Estate Planning Series, providing clear estate planning guidance across all 50 states.