Guard Your Wealth, Leave A Legacy!

September 15, 2025•3 min read

Estate planning is often overlooked by entrepreneurs, but as R. Kenner French and attorney Robert J. Bluhm stress, it is essential for anyone who wants to protect their assets and their family. The conversation begins with a stark reminder: after working for 30 to 40 years, no one wants to lose their wealth to taxes, probate costs, or poor planning. Estate planning ensures that money stays in the family, protects assets from lawsuits, and minimizes unnecessary tax burdens. It is not just about passing wealth to heirs—it is also about ensuring security and care for oneself during later years.

Bob explains that estate planning primarily solves two major issues: estate taxes and probate. While federal estate tax exemptions are currently high—over $13 million per person—they are subject to change and could drop significantly after 2025. In addition, 17 states impose estate or inheritance taxes, sometimes with exemption thresholds as low as $3 million. This makes planning essential for individuals with significant assets, especially real estate investors who might own property in multiple states. Without planning, heirs could face lengthy and expensive probate proceedings that expose private financial details to the public and, in some cases, result in family conflicts and diminished estate value.

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A key tool for avoiding probate is the revocable living trust. Unlike a will, which requires probate, a trust allows assets to be transferred quickly, privately, and according to precise instructions. A trust can stagger inheritances by age, include provisions for heirs struggling with addiction, and prevent assets from being seized by creditors. It also gives parents peace of mind by allowing them to designate guardians for minor children. Supporting documents, such as pour-over wills, certifications of trust, HIPAA waivers, medical directives, and powers of attorney, form part of a comprehensive estate plan. These ensure continuity of decision-making and protection, even if the individual becomes incapacitated.

Kenner highlights how powerful these tools can be, even on a personal level. He recalls experiencing turbulence on a flight and feeling reassured knowing his estate plan was in order and his children would be provided for. Bluhm reinforces that beyond financial efficiency, estate planning provides “psychic benefits”—the peace of mind that comes from having things in order. It prevents family disputes, ensures assets go where they are intended, and spares loved ones from the emotional and financial turmoil of messy probate battles.

Finally, the discussion touches on practicalities. The Asset Defense Team, in partnership with Vast Solutions Group, offers estate planning services at a fraction of what large firms charge—$3,900 for couples and $3,400 for individuals. Their process includes detailed questionnaires, multiple consultations, and tailored drafting of documents. Beyond estate planning, they provide asset protection, business law services, tax planning, bookkeeping, retirement planning, and even commercial lending solutions. Both Kenner and Robert emphasize that planning is not just a financial task—it is an act of love and responsibility toward one’s family, providing lasting protection and peace of mind.

Takeaways

• Estate planning is essential to protect your assets.

• Probate can be costly and time-consuming.

• A revocable living trust can help avoid probate.

• Designating a guardian for minor children is crucial.

• Estate planning provides peace of mind for families.

• You can control how and when your heirs receive assets.

• Regularly reviewing your estate plan is important.

• Digital assets need to be included in your estate plan.

• Planning is an expression of love for your family.

• Engaging with professionals can simplify the estate planning process.

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