Just like the construction of a building requires a well-designed blueprint, creating a successful estate plan requires a thorough exploration of your planning goals and needs. In this updated second edition of Secure Your Legacy, Certified Elder Law Attorney Richard J. Shapiro uses real world examples from his three decades of practicing law to provide the reader with a thorough understanding of key estate planning and elder law concepts including: How to know if you need a will or trust (or both) The difference between revocable and irrevocable trusts Ways to protect your assets from being wiped out due to the high costs of long-term care Planning techniques to reduce estate, gift, and capital gains taxes How to protect your children's inheritances from their creditors and divorcing spouses How to protect your assets from the reach of "creditors and predators" Why you should never create an estate plan online Shapiro also shares tips on planning for a child with special needs, planning for the transfer of a family business, and providing for the needs of a beloved pet upon your death.