Final answer:
An estate plan could help make the probate process shorter, ensure sibling agreement on asset division, and offer protection for assets within legal limits.
Step-by-step explanation:
An estate plan could have benefited the Reed family in several ways, although it would not necessarily have eliminated the inheritance tax. Instead, a proper estate plan can help in making the probate process shorter by providing clear directives on asset distribution, potentially reducing delays and legal costs. It may also help ensure that all siblings agree on the division of assets, as their wishes and expectations can be discussed and outlined in advance. While an estate plan may not always protect assets from debt collectors, as debts generally need to be settled before distributing assets, it can include structures like trusts, which may offer some protection of assets within legal limits.