A Personal Representative, also known as an Executor, of an estate is simply the person who is designated to carry out the wishes set forth in the decedent’s will. This person also has the responsibility of finishing up the decedent’s final affairs, such as paying outstanding bills Continue reading
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New Year’s Resolutions
As we look forward to this year’s end and a new year beginning, it is a good time for organizing year-end financials and setting new goals for 2021. That includes digging out your estate plan to make sure that it still represents an accurate snapshot of your life. The pandemic has Continue reading
Estate Planning During a Crisis
If you are worried about the possibility that you or a loved one could become ill or worse due to the novel coronavirus, you are not alone. The new spikes in cases across the country is anxiety-provoking. While none of us can predict the future, getting your affairs in order now can Continue reading
Tips When Choosing a Guardian for your Children
Helping parents to choose a guardian who can raise their children in the event of an untimely death is one of the most important jobs of an estate planning attorney. Rather than leaving the decision to a judge (who may choose guardians the parents would never want), working with an Continue reading
“Should I Leave $1 in My Will to An Heir I Wish to Disinherit?”
There’s a common belief that if you want to disinherit someone, say an adult child, that you should leave them $1 and nothing more in your will. The thought is that doing so serves to acknowledge the heir (so you can’t be accused of unintentionally leaving the heir out) while making Continue reading
Skipping Probate? Here’s What Will Happen.
Probate in is a process in which a court decides whether a will is valid or not. It is also legally required in most cases for the management and distribution of a decedent’s assets with or without a will. This definition suggests that if you skip probate, there is no way to legally Continue reading
“What’s the worst that can happen?”
“What’s the worst thing that can happen if I get sick or pass away without an estate plan in place?”
This is a common question I receive, especially from those in close-knit families who believe that their kids (or other loved ones) will peacefully sort everything out when they pass Continue reading
Accessing Death Benefits
How to Claim Death Benefits After the Loss of a Loved One
Dealing with outstanding financial affairs after the loss of a loved one can be extremely difficult. Our firm often hears from clients who would rather do anything else than think about money after their loved one’s passing. Continue reading
Safe Places to Store Your Original Estate Planning Portfolio
Have you recently completed your estate plan with a will and trust lawyer? Congratulations! The hardest part is done. While you work to tie up any loose ends or “fund” your trust if necessary, now is also the time to give serious thought as to where you will store your original documents.
Remember, Continue reading
The #1 Legal Document Every Adult Needs to Have
As the coronavirus continues to disrupt daily life and leave Americans uncertain of the future, you do not have to feel helpless during this pandemic. In fact, now is a great time to be proactive and plan ahead should you or a loved one fall ill. One of the most important and relatively Continue reading