On May 27, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the University of the Virgin Islands Innovation and Research Center, Estate Shield VI will present a practical seminar designed to help local families navigate the often-confusing world of wills, trusts, and probate.
The event, led by Steve Lowe, a certified financial planner, certified estate & trust specialist, and founder of Estate Shield VI, aims to cut through legal jargon and provide clear, actionable information for everyday families in the Virgin Islands.
The workshop will go beyond basic definitions. Attendees will leave with a concrete understanding of the functional difference between a will and a trust, specific legal strategies to keep assets out of probate court, and overlooked financial issues that can undermine otherwise sound estate plans.
Beyond information, attendees will be empowered with practical solutions. The session will showcase how Estate Shield VI’s technology driven platform makes estate planning more accessible, affordable, and manageable for families. “Attendees will see first hand how what was once a daunting process can feel easy, affordable, and accessible to the everyday USVI family,” said Lowe.
According to Lowe, a common misunderstanding is that estate planning begins and ends with signed legal paperwork. In practice, effective estate planning requires equal attention to both legal structures and financial realities. “It’s 50% legal and 50% financial. When you only handle one side, the whole plan can fall apart,” he said.
This seminar is for anyone who owns a home or land in the USVI, operates a business, has minor or adult children, and provides care or support for aging parents. “You don’t need to be wealthy to need an estate plan. You just need people and things you care about and strong motivation to protect them,” said Lowe.
“Probate and family conflict feed each other. Disputes over a family home, a business, or unequal sharing of financial or caregiving responsibilities can lead to long-term rifts. While legal fees are painful, the relational damage lasts far longer than the court proceedings,” Lowe said.
When asked about common misconceptions in relation to estate planning, Lowe explained that there is a pervasive belief that preparing for the future invites misfortune. “In reality, estate planning has nothing to do with courting death and everything to do with protecting loved ones and hard-earned assets while one is still able. Delaying the conversation does not prevent loss, it leaves families to resolve chaos in court and in conflict, without clear guidance from the person who knew their wishes best,” he cautioned.
