PARIS — The Western Maine chapter of the Small Woodland Owners Association will present a program on estate planning at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 18, at Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School in South Paris. Linda Russell, an attorney with Oxford Hills Law in South Paris who specializes in estate planning, probate and real estate, will be the speaker.

“Life and death estate planning is very personal. Everyone lives and dies, and everyone ought to plan, or at least understand what happens when planning does not occur. Misconceptions abound and ‘one size does not fit all,'” she said.

“Timberland owners have special challenges because they have an asset that needs management, is a substantial part of their estate, they hope will be sustainable and is usually highly appreciated. Come hear about estate planning, with timberland: wills, trusts, powers of attorney, titling of assets, beneficiary designations and the creation of different types of entities,” she said.

Also discussed will be the basics, and current federal and Maine estate, gift and other tax issues, basis rules and conservation easements. Other considerations to be discussed include the need to plan for the support of the owner, his or her land and the surviving spouse or minor children.

Bring questions or forward them ahead of time to [email protected] or call 207-743-7753 and speak with Russell. For a biography of the speaker, visit oxfordhillslaw.com.

Linda Russell has represented individuals and businesses in planning for her entire legal career, in addition to working with folks after the death of the primary asset holder when there has been no planning. She is also a SWOAM member and many may have seen her in the SWOAM booth at the Fryeburg Fair.