How to Avoid Inheritance Mistakes
Dealing with the death of a loved one and receiving an inheritance is an emotional time. The loss of a loved one is sad but the influx of funds can bring joy or relief. It can be hard to think…
Plan Ahead to Reduce Probate
The probate process occurs after someone passes away. Probate can be lengthy, complex, and expensive, but good estate planning can mitigate unwanted risks by anticipating and preventing problems before they arise. Sound estate planning can make the probate process run…
Estate Planning for Farms and Ranches
The succession and estate planning of farm and ranch real estate, livestock, and equipment present unique challenges. There is a common misconception that federal estate taxes threaten farm or ranch property, preventing assets from getting to rightful heirs. Over the…
Government Programs Provide Senior Benefits
Many US seniors today are struggling with financial insecurity due to the inflationary pressures they are being faced with. Aside from cutting back on unnecessary expenses, many retirees or near-retirement individuals should look to existing government programs to possibly qualify…
Guardianship of an Elderly Parent
It is common that as our parents age they will lose their ability to make informed decisions regarding their lives. This growing inability may occur due to Alzheimer’s disease, other forms of dementia, mental illness, stroke, brain injury, or other…
Probate: An Overview
If you are looking to minimize or avoid probate altogether an estate planning attorney can help. Probate proceedings are part of the public record and can be very time-consuming and expensive. However, in nearly every case, some probate is necessary,…
The Trustee’s Role in Trusts
When it comes to estate planning, no matter where you are in the process or whether you're just starting to consider your options, you probably have questions about how your assets should be distributed. A trust can be a great tool…
Life Care Planning Equals Estate Planning plus Elder Law
Elder law and estate planning are often used interchangeably, but there are significant differences between them. While some overlap exists between the two, learning and implementing strategies from both law practice types is crucial to prepare for successful aging and…
Your Estate Plan Should Be Revised Upon Divorce
It is rare that assets are divided amicably in divorce (especially if there are children involved). While your estate plan may be the furthest thing from your mind during a divorce, without updating your documents, your ex-spouse may receive assets…
What is the Probate Process?
A loss of a close relative is one of life's most emotionally draining experiences, along with the stress of dealing with the deceased's estate. This part can be especially overwhelming. The process of proving to a probate court that the…