We compiled basic estate planning dos and don'ts by asking a dozen helpful attorneys to share their top estate planning strategies for saving hassles and money—and for their warnings about common mistakes.

To help your heirs unravel your finances, maintain a list of your major assets and accounts and where they can find your end-of-life documents. Give copies of your roadmap to your attorney, immediate family, and/or friends. We've gathered a list of what to include.

Unless your situation is very straightforward, have your will prepared by an experienced lawyer, and hire a financial planner or estate attorney to organize your finances.