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YOUR FINANCIAL ADVOCATE 25 AUG
A Clearer, Smarter Way to Plan CHOOSE YOUR PATH
WHY IT MATTERS When everything is aligned, you gain protection, confidence, clarity, and the ability to make decisions today that echo positively through the future. Each level helps solve common problems clients face, from not knowing who will make decisions in an emergency to paying more taxes than necessary or having children unprepared for what’s to come. And because each plan includes the features of the one before it, there’s a natural progression as life and circumstances change. At DuPont Law Group, we believe estate planning isn’t just about documents; it’s about building a life strategy that protects, empowers, and endures. To celebrate this new, more transparent approach, we’re offering a 25% discount to existing clients who wish to upgrade their plan to a higher level. Whether you’re looking to add financial integration, build legacy tools, or simply gain greater clarity, this is a powerful opportunity to take your planning to the next level.
2D: PLANPROTECT This tier is for families ready to take a step further. PlanProtect is designed to ensure your estate plan works not just on paper, but in real life. We fund your trust, align your assets, and put safeguards in place to help your family avoid probate altogether. It addresses the common pitfall where families end up in court despite having a “plan” because their assets weren’t titled or transferred properly. 3D: CLARITYMAP ClarityMap adds insight. This plan gives you a snapshot of your financial picture alongside your estate documents and connects the dots between your legal, tax, and financial strategies. Clients in this tier benefit from custom plans to reduce taxes, coordinate with financial advisors, and clarify decision-making for their family. It’s especially valuable for pre-retirees who want to ensure their big decisions, like gifting, selling assets, or retiring, are based on the full picture, not guesswork. 4D: LEGACYMAX LegacyMax is our most comprehensive experience. It integrates every aspect of your estate and financial life through our proprietary Six-Pillar Process. This goes beyond planning and is an ongoing strategy, legacy coaching, and multigenerational preparation. It includes family meetings, legacy interviews, and a level of coordination across your advisory team that ensures your plan stays aligned over time. This is ideal for clients nearing retirement or already retired who want to not just preserve wealth, but multiply its meaning across generations.
After decades of helping families plan for the future, one truth has become crystal clear: Plans often fail not because of bad intentions, but because of poor coordination. When legal, insurance, investment, and tax strategies aren’t working together, cracks appear, which can turn into real, costly consequences for families. At DuPont Law Group, we’re committed to solving that problem. That’s why, as we transition into a more integrated planning model, we’re also introducing a clearer, more client-friendly framework: Your Life & Legacy Planning Experience . This approach helps you understand exactly what level of strategy and protection you’re getting and empowers you to choose the path that best fits your needs, goals, and stage of life.
4 TIERS OF PLANNING, ONE UNIFIED VISION
To simplify and clarify the process, we’ve organized our core estate planning services into four tiers, each building on the one before it. Essentially, it’s a “choose your path” model, where each level adds depth, integration, and long-term protection. 1D: LIFESTART PLAN This is our foundational plan, focused on getting the basic documents in place: a will, power of attorney, health care directives, and in some cases, a simple trust. It’s perfect for individuals with minimal probate risk who want to ensure their wishes are legally documented. While it doesn’t avoid probate or integrate a financial strategy, it’s a vital starting point and a huge relief for families who would otherwise be left with nothing.
Wealth Solutions: AdvocateWealthSolutions.com | Law Office: DuPontEstateLaw.com | 1
WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING PART OF YOUR JOB? The most rewarding part of my job is being able to help people plan for the future and make sure their families are taken care of. I love to make lifelong connections with clients, and touch base with them even about things going on in their lives that aren’t law or finance related. I also find the work environment here at DuPont Law Group very satisfying and productive. I love working with my coworkers. The team we have here is amazing when it comes to working together and being there for each other. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO SOMEONE HESITANT ABOUT CREATING AN ESTATE PLAN? The most important thing I could say is to just do it. You never know how short life can be, and you never know what might happen to you or a loved one. Don’t wait 20 or 30 years from now to start the estate planning process. Get it done now. You can always come back and make changes later to the documents you already have in place. MEREDITH SMITH ESTATE PLANNING PARALEGAL STAFF SPOTLIGHT:
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING AT THE LAW FIRM, AND WHAT DO YOU DO HERE? I started working for Greg in 2018 and have spent time in nearly every role here at the firm. My typical workday consists of any number of things, from drafting estate planning documents to assisting in meetings and checking in with current and prospective clients. I also serve as Greg’s assistant to help with scheduling and emails.
WE APPRECIATE YOU
WHAT HAVE WE BEEN TALKING ABOUT IN THE PODCAST?
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EPISODE 49: “ How to Build a Future-Proof Law Firm With Ali Katz” EPISODE 48: “ The Secret to Employee Retention and Payroll Savings With Reagan Allen” EPISODE 47: “ Unlocking the Retirement Tax Trap: Strategies for Preserving Wealth”
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2 | Wealth Solutions: 614-408-0004 | Law Office: 614-408-0529
The Smart Way to Save, Invest, and Stay on Track Put Your Finances on Autopilot
INVEST CONSISTENTLY, NOT EMOTIONALLY Investing can be nerve-wracking, especially when markets are volatile. Automating your investment contributions takes the emotion out of the process. Set up automatic transfers into your 401(k), IRA, or brokerage account. This steady, consistent approach, called dollar-cost averaging, helps you invest through market ups and downs and avoid the temptation to time the market. STAY AHEAD OF BILLS AND AVOID LATE FEES Missing a bill payment can cost you in interest charges, late fees, and even damage to your credit score. Automating payments for your mortgage, utilities, credit cards, and subscriptions ensures you stay on top of due dates. Just be sure to maintain a safety cushion in your checking account to avoid overdrafting your accounts.
BUILD A FINANCIAL FOUNDATION YOU CAN TRUST Remember, automation doesn’t mean you ignore your money. Instead, it’s a safety net that works in the background. Review your finances regularly to adjust for changes in income, expenses, or goals, but let the automation work for you in the background!
Managing your money shouldn’t be time- consuming or complicated. In fact, some of the smartest financial moves are the ones that happen without your even thinking about them. That’s where automation comes in. By setting up simple systems to handle your day-to-day finances, you can save time, reduce stress, and make progress toward your goals without constant effort. SAVE WITHOUT THINKING ABOUT IT One of the easiest and most effective ways to build wealth is to automate your savings. Set up recurring transfers from your checking account to a savings or high-yield savings account each payday. Whether you start with $25 or $250, that consistent contribution adds up over time. Because the transfer happens before you even see the money, you’re less likely to spend it.
LET YOUR MONEY WORK FOR YOU Automating your finances helps you save, invest, and easily manage your
responsibilities while freeing up your time and mental energy for the things that matter most. Set it, check in periodically, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing your money is moving in the right direction.
SUDOKU
SUMMER CHICKPEA SALAD
Inspired by HowSweetEats.com
INGREDIENTS
2 (15-oz) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed 4 green onions, thinly sliced 2 ears grilled corn, kernels cut from the cob 1 pint cherry tomatoes, quartered 3 tbsp chopped fresh basil 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives
1/4 tsp salt
•
• • • • • • •
1/4 tsp pepper 3 tbsp olive oil
• •
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 1/2 tbsp honey
• • •
3 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
1 lime, zested and juiced
DIRECTIONS
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, onions, corn, tomatoes, basil, and chives. 2. Toss well with salt and pepper and set aside. 3. In a small saucepan over low heat, add oil, vinegar, honey, garlic, lime juice, and zest. 4. Whisk until the mixture is warm and garlic begins sizzling. 5. Pour over the chickpea mixture and toss well to coat. 6. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Wealth Solutions: AdvocateWealthSolutions.com | Law Office: DuPontEstateLaw.com | 3
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655 Metro Place South, Ste. 440 Dublin, OH 43017 614-408-0004 AdvocateWealthSolutions.com
YOUR FINANCIAL ADVOCATE A publication of Advocate Wealth Solutions, blending original and curated content, and is intended to educate the general public about investing, finance, estate planning, personal injury, and small-business issues. It is not intended to be legal or financial advice. Every situation is different. The information in this newsletter may be freely copied and distributed as long as the newsletter is copied in its entirety.
INSIDE
Introducing Your Life & Legacy Planning Experience PAGE 1
Meet Meredith Smith, Estate Planning Paralegal
Our Podcast
Client Appreciation PAGE 2
The Power of Automating Your Financial Life
Summer Chickpea Salad PAGE 3 Nantucket’s Timeless Allure PAGE 4
Whales, Wine, and Whimsy WHY NANTUCKET SHOULD BE YOUR NEXT GETAWAY
When many Americans think of vacation destinations, they envision beautiful state parks, sunny beaches in Florida or California, and the mountains of Appalachia and the Rockies. However, many states across the country offer exciting events and beautiful scenery. If Massachusetts isn’t already on your radar, consider giving it a closer look the next time you plan a vacation. Cape Cod has beautiful beaches and a rich history that many don’t know about, and something exciting is always happening in Boston. But if you want to experience the true essence of Massachusetts, take a trip to Nantucket. Nantucket is a small island, only 14 miles long and about 3.5 miles wide. Its history with European settlers goes back over 500 years. First sighted by an Englishman named Bartholomew Gosnold in 1602, the
island was settled by colonists 50 years later in 1659. Not long after, they spotted whales offshore, which put Nantucket on the map. Whaling became the ultimate trade for people living in the area, and the island even became the world’s whaling capital until the 1850s. You can still view
whales from the island today, and if you want to get the full story, check out the Nantucket Whaling Museum. If whale watching and museum touring aren’t your thing, you can pursue other exciting activities around Nantucket. The island is bike-friendly, and many trails will take you by all the best sights. Many one-of-a-kind boutiques occupy beautiful historic buildings, and there’s even a public golf course that will leave all your golfing buddies jealous. If you go in May, you may even experience the renowned Wine & Food Festival. Nantucket is full of historic architecture, beautiful scenery, and friendly people. You might even see a famous face during your visit! This is a vacation you’ll be talking about for years to come!
4 | Wealth Solutions: 614-408-0004 | Law Office: 614-408-0529
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Your Life & Legacy Planning Experience Choose the level of strategy, protection, and peace of mind that fits your life and your legacy. Each planning level includes all services from the levels below it, with added features tailored to your goals, complexity, and family needs. The more advanced the level, the more integration you receive across legal, financial, and legacy support.
ClarityMap Plan (3D Plan: Document, Defend, & Discover)
LegacyMax Experience
(4D Plan: Document, Defend, Discover & Deliver)
Who This is For:
Who This is For:
Pre-retirees and families wanting clarity and alignment across legal, financial, and tax strategies. Why It Matters: At this level, your estate plan starts working with your financial plan—giving you the clarity to make better decisions and avoid unnecessary risk, cost, and taxes. Includes all features of the LifeStart and PlanProtect Plans.
Clients preparing for retirement who want to ensure their legacy is protected, unified, and clearly communicated. Why It Matters: When everything is aligned—your plan, your people, your purpose—you not only preserve wealth, you multiply its meaning. This level helps ensure your legacy is as intentional as your life. Includes everything in ClarityMap, PlanProtect, and LifeStart.
Solves Problems Like:
Solves Problems Like:
Key Benefits:
Key Benefits:
Not knowing how much you can spend or give without running out Missing tax-saving strategies because no one’s looking at the full picture Your advisors working in silos instead of as one team Family arguments or stress because no one knows your plan Your life’s work getting lost in spreadsheets instead of leaving a legacy
Not knowing how your money, taxes, and trust all fit together Making big financial decisions without seeing the full picture Leaving behind accounts or insurance that no one knows about Your family not knowing where to find things—or who’s in charge Paying more in taxes than you need to because no one connected the dots
A full review of your finances, taxes, and estate plan A custom strategy to reduce taxes and avoid mistakes Help organizing your accounts and insurance Support to align your trust and financial advisor's plan Clear action steps for your future, not just paperwork Annual updates to stay on track as life changes
Comprehensive financial planning tied to your estate plan Clarity on spending, taxes, and income through retirement Your story and values captured in a Legacy Interview Family meetings to prevent stress and confusion later Charitable giving and multi-generational planning built in Your advisory team working together to carry out your vision
Your Investment:
Your Investment:
$5,495–$11,995
$4,995–$8,995
655 Metro Place S. Suite #440, Dublin, OH 43017 t: 614-432-8065 e: info@wealthsolutionsnetwork.com w: www.wealthsolutionsgroup.biz
655 Metro Place South, Ste 440, Dublin, Ohio 43017. t: 614.408.0529 w: www.dupontestatelaw.com
PlanProtect (2D Plan: Document & Defend)
LifeStart Plan (1D Plan, Document)
Who This is For:
Who This is For:
Families who want to make sure their plan actually works and avoids probate. Why It Matters: Without proper asset alignment, even a well-written plan can lead your loved ones back into probate court—costing them time, money, and peace of mind. Includes all legal services provided in the LifeStart Plan.
You have a low risk of probate and want the essential legal documents in place to make sure your wishes are followed. Why It Matters: While this plan checks the essential boxes, it may not protect your family from the delays and expenses of probate if something unexpected happens.
Solves Problems Like:
Key Benefits:
Solves Problems Like: Your trust not working because
Key Benefits:
Not having anything written down if something unexpected happens Your family not knowing who should make decisions or what you would want Hospitals refusing to speak with loved ones because there’s no paperwork Banks freezing accounts because no one has legal authority to act Stress, panic, and family conflict when you're unable to speak for yourself
A legally valid Will, Power of Attorney, and Health Care Directive A Living Will to guide A basic Revocable Trust (*availability may vary by legal plan provider*) One deed prepared for your Ohio property The peace of mind that your basic documents are in place medical choices when you can’t
Your trust gets funded so it works when needed You avoid probate court and protect your family from delays Important assets and accounts are reviewed and aligned Key people (like your trustees) get clear instructions Digital access to your documents and emergency tools Ongoing check-ins to keep your plan up to date
your assets weren’t put in it Your family still ending up in probate court—just with thicker paperwork Expensive delays and legal battles when things aren’t properly titled Your wishes getting lost because no one kept the plan updated Thinking your plan is done, when it’s really just getting started
Your Investment:
Your Investment:
$4,495–$7,995
$1,995–$4,495
Feature
LifeStart
PlanProtect
ClarityMap
LegacyMax
Legal Docs (Will, POA, Trust) Probate Avoidance Financial Clarity & Tax Planning Legacy Strategy & Family Preparation
655 Metro Place S. Suite #440, Dublin, OH 43017 t: 614-432-8065 e: info@wealthsolutionsnetwork.com w: www.wealthsolutionsgroup.biz
655 Metro Place South, Ste 440, Dublin, Ohio 43017. t: 614.408.0529 w: www.dupontestatelaw.com
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