Wills, trusts and business planning. Spoken or signed.

Usually a will, a durable power of attorney for finances, and a health care directive, which in Minnesota names the agent who makes medical decisions if you cannot and records your wishes. Many families add a revocable trust, and parents name a guardian for minor children. What fits depends on your family and what you own.

Often a will is enough. A Minnesota will usually goes through probate, a public court process that takes time. A revocable trust, once your assets are retitled into it, can keep them out of probate, which may matter for privacy, a cabin, or a child who needs help with money. We talk it through at the first meeting.

Yes. Heather is fluent in American Sign Language, so you can talk with her directly, with no interpreter in between. We also work in PSE, SEE and CART, and by typing or email. ASL users can reach us on our videophone at (651) 964-2024 to set up a first meeting.

It depends on what you put in place beforehand. Without a plan, your share may pass through probate, and co-owners and family can be left guessing. A buy-sell or operating agreement can say who may buy your share and how it is valued, and a power of attorney can name who acts for you if you cannot.

Often, yes. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, a doctor’s office is a public accommodation and generally must provide auxiliary aids, such as a qualified interpreter, when needed to communicate effectively with a Deaf patient or companion (42 U.S.C. 12182; 28 C.F.R. 36.303). It generally cannot charge you for them. What counts as effective depends on the visit.