When Revocable Becomes Irrevocable
Here’s a question we got from a client a while ago: After my brother died, he left money in a revocable trust for my children – but they could only get that money if they spent it on a trip…
The Key to Advance Directives is a Critical Conversation about Treatment
It is one of the most difficult things we will ever have to do in life to contemplate our own death. Yet it is very important to think carefully about the medical treatment we would want for that challenging time.…
A Guide to Probate
The American Bar Association (ABA) notes that probate is the legal process that acknowledges a will and appoints a personal representative (executor) to administer the estate to intended beneficiaries. Navigating the probate process will vary according to state law. Therefore,…
Asking the Right Questions to Protect Nursing Home Residents
To ensure the well-being of your loved ones in a nursing home, you must advocate for them. Residents in nursing homes and other long-term care facilities are disproportionately affected by the flu, pneumonia, COVID 19, and other contagious diseases. According…
A Guide to Estate Settlement
When appointing someone as the executor or executor-designate of an estate, or when accepting the responsibility of one, there are certain factors to consider – the complexity of the task and the order in which to pursue it. Beyond the…
The Probate Process with or Without a Will
The probate process, held in probate court, is well-known to most people, who know the process takes place after someone passes away. There are very few people who realize it can be a prolonged and complicated process. Often, it will…
An Ineffective Power of Attorney
Powers of attorney allow you to appoint a trusted individual to make decisions and handle transactions on your behalf. You might need them for personal finances, business operations, or medical purposes, either immediately or on an ongoing basis. Sounds simple,…
Plan for the Future of Non-Traditional Families
The practice of estate planning is evolving due to changing family structures. Thirty years ago, a traditional family consisted of a man and a woman who lived together, bought a house, had children, and worked to achieve financial stability and…
Different Types of Trusts Explained
The word trust is often used to describe someone who is a beneficiary of a trust fund. Despite the common misconception that only wealthy people have trusts, they are a useful tool for estate planning of all sizes. A trust…
Identifying and Understanding Powers of Attorney
As part of your estate planning process, it is critical to implement Power of Attorney (POA) documents. Powers of attorney are recognized in every state, but the rules and requirements vary from state to state. By signing the document, you…
