How Does Setting up a Trust Benefit You?
We often hear this question. If you need a trust, read on to find out what kind suits your situation and whether you need one. For example, maybe you have a disabled child and you want a trust to permit…
The Process of Challenging a Will
An estate will details who will receive a deceased person's property and which person (called the executor) will be responsible for settling the estate after death. For many reasons, beneficiaries can feel slighted by what they did or didn’t receive,…
The Elder Law Attorney’s Guide to End-of-Life Planning
We can find it difficult to talk about death because it is such a heavy topic. Planning for it can seem even harder. But end-of-life planning is an important part of estate planning and a gift to your loved ones.…
There Is Much More to a Will Than Transferring Assets
A survey conducted by Care.com revealed that 57% of Americans do not have a Last Will and Testament (a "Will"). The survey found that participants were more likely or less likely to have a Will depending on issues such as…
It Is Beneficial for Both Seniors and Their Families to Hire Elder Law Attorneys
In elder law, a certified elder law attorney (CELA) represents aging adults and their families in legal matters. Elder law encompasses a wide range of legal matters affecting an older or disabled person. Issues related to guardianship, retirement, health care…
Sibling Estate Disputes: How to Avoid or Resolve Them
The rivalry between siblings. In most families, it's unavoidable. Depending on your particular family members and the dynamic between them, old rivalries from the past can become more significant when a parent passes. Adult children who are emotionally upset and…
How Probate Works Without a Will
Intestate means your loved one died without a will. What happens then? According to your state’s intestacy laws, a probate court will oversee the distribution process of the decedent’s property. Also known as intestate succession, it has similarities to the…
A Guide to Understanding Gift and Estate Taxes
Asset transfers between individuals or estates are considered taxable events by the Internal Revenue Service. These taxes are often referred to as gift taxes and estate taxes. They include any asset such as cash and property. The good news is…
If You Are Considering Creating an Estate Plan by Yourself, Think Twice
This question comes up all the time: “Couldn't I just make a will online, transfer my land and put my children into a bank account when I die?” It’s just not a good idea. For the plan to work as…
Digital Estate Planning: 4 Obstacles to Avoid
With the Internet of Things (IoT), knowing which digital property you own and managing it has never been more important. From smart home devices to online investments and bank accounts, we’ve gone way beyond using the internet to email family…