Estate Planning News

Presiding Judges In Fifth Judicial District

St. George, UT---Judge Michael Westfall has been named presiding judge for the Fifth District Court effective July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2008. Judge Westfall replaces Judge James Shumate. Judge Eric A. Ludlow has been named associate presiding judge.

Judge Thomas M. Higbee has been named presiding judge for the Fifth District Juvenile Court effective July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2008. Judge Higbee replaces Judge Hans Chamberlain.

The presiding judge is responsible for the effective operation of their court. According to court Rule 3-104, presiding judges are responsible for implementation and enforcement of statutes, rules, policies, and directives of the Judicial Council as they pertain to the administration of the courts. The presiding judge is responsible for assigning cases and judges.

The Fifth Judicial District presiding judges and associated presiding judges are selected on a rotation basis. When the presiding judge is unavailable, the associate presiding judge assumes his or her responsibilities.

Contact our Alabama estate planning attorney now.

	Did You Know?
	Estate planning is a process to consider alternatives Good estate planning is more than just a simple Will. Estate planning also typically minimizes potential taxes and fees, and sets up contingency planning to make sure your wishes regarding health care treatment are followed. On the financial side, a good estate plan coordinates what would happen with your home, your investments, your business, your life insurance, your employee benefits (such as a 401K plan), and other property in the event you became disabled or if you die.