Estate planning in Georgia involves more than writing a will. Georgia does not have a state estate tax, but the federal estate tax applies above the exemption threshold. A valid will must be in writing, signed by the testator, and witnessed by two non-beneficiaries. Georgia offers revocable living trusts (avoid probate), irrevocable trusts (asset protection), and Miller trusts (Medicaid eligibility). Without an estate plan, Georgia’s intestacy laws control distribution. Probate goes through the county Probate Court. The five firms below handle estate planning across Middle Georgia.
1. Martin Snow LLP — Macon
Martin Snow is a full-service law firm with an extensive trust and estate practice. They handle wills, trusts, probate, estate administration, and estate tax planning, from traditional plans to complex multigenerational wealth transfers.
Practice areas: Wills, trusts, probate, estate administration, estate tax planning, business succession planning.
Address: Macon, GA
Phone: Contact via website
Website: https://www.martinsnow.com
Hours: Mon-Fri, office hours
2. Jen Haskins Law — Macon
Attorney Jennifer Moore has devoted over a decade to estate planning and elder law. One of few attorneys in central Georgia offering both under one roof. Services include wills, powers of attorney, advance directives, pet trusts, Miller trusts for Medicaid eligibility, and probate.
Practice areas: Wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance directives, elder law, Medicaid planning, probate.
Address: Macon, GA
Phone: Contact via website
Website: https://www.jenhaskinslaw.com
Hours: Mon-Fri, office hours
3. Adams, Hemingway, Wilson & Rutledge — Macon
Adams Hemingway has been representing Middle Georgia clients for over 50 years. They use cutting-edge estate and tax planning techniques and build long-term relationships with client families across generations.
Practice areas: Estate planning, wills, trusts, estate tax planning, corporate and transactional law, business succession.
Address: Macon, GA
Phone: Contact via website
Website: https://www.adamshemingway.com
Hours: Mon-Fri, office hours
4. Lisenby Law — Macon
Lisenby Law provides a general estate planning package including three core documents: Last Will and Testament, Advance Healthcare Directive, and General Power of Attorney. Also handles probate, business law, employment law, and historic tax credits.
Practice areas: Wills, advance directives, powers of attorney, probate, estate administration, fiduciary law, business law.
Address: Macon, GA
Phone: (478) 254-5752
Website: https://lisenbylaw.com
Hours: Mon-Fri, office hours
5. Varner & Peacock — Warner Robins
D. Lee Peacock has 35 years of experience in wills, estates, and probate. The firm handles guardianships for minors and incapacitated adults. Located in Warner Robins.
Practice areas: Wills, trusts, probate, estate administration, guardianship, real estate, family law.
Address: Warner Robins, GA
Phone: Contact via website
Website: https://varnerpeacock.com
Hours: Mon-Fri, office hours
FAQ
How much does a basic estate plan cost in Middle Georgia?
A simple will typically costs $300 to $800. A basic package (will, power of attorney, advance directive) usually runs $500 to $1,500. A revocable living trust package costs $1,500 to $4,000. Complex plans can cost $5,000 or more.
What is the difference between a will and a trust in Georgia?
A will takes effect after death and must go through probate (public, 6-12 months). A revocable living trust avoids probate, keeps the estate private, and allows management if you become incapacitated. Trusts cost more to create and require funding by retitling assets.
What happens if I die without a will in Georgia?
Georgia’s intestacy laws control. Married with children: spouse and children split, spouse gets no less than one-third. Married without children: spouse gets everything. Unmarried with children: children split equally. None goes to friends, charities, or unmarried partners.