What to do with someone's property when they die can be a complicated task involving beneficiaries, a ton of paperwork and the court system. But it doesn't necessarily have to be.

Liz Smith, a Juneau-based lawyer specializing in estate planning, gave a presentation last Wednesday to help clear up the often confusing world of wills, asset protection and long-term health care decisions

Twelve people of various ages attended the presentation at Irene Ingle Public Library, listening as Smith gave a broad overview of planning options, then inviting attendees to ask questions.

"It's something we nee...