Understanding the Role of an Executor and Power of Attorney in Property Sales

As an estate planning lawyer, I often receive questions about the roles and responsibilities of an executor and a power of attorney (POA), especially in situations where a loved one is no longer living at home. A question I recently received encapsulates a common misunderstanding: “My mom is in a nursing home and her house […]

Leveraging Life Insurance for Your Estate Plan

One common misconception when it comes to estate planning is the belief that one must have significant assets to establish a comprehensive plan. As an estate lawyer, I’m here to tell you that this simply isn’t the case. In fact, life insurance can play a crucial role in your estate planning, even if your existing […]

Can a Person with a Life Estate Rent the Property to Others?

One question I often receive is whether a person with a life estate can rent the property to others. A life estate is a type of legal arrangement in which an individual, known as a life tenant, is given the right to use a property for their lifetime. After the life tenant passes away, the […]

Integrating a Prenuptial Agreement into Your Comprehensive Estate Plan

Estate planning is an essential process for anyone looking to secure their assets and protect their loved ones. One often overlooked aspect of estate planning is the prenuptial agreement, which is an invaluable tool for protecting individual assets and ensuring a smooth distribution of assets in the event of a divorce or separation. In this […]

Key Considerations for Opening a Bank Account in the Name of a Trust

A trust is a valuable estate planning tool that offers flexibility and control over the distribution of your assets. One essential aspect of managing a trust is opening a bank account in its name. This article will explore the key factors to consider when opening a trust bank account, including the required documentation, account types, […]

Integrating a Prenuptial Agreement into Your Comprehensive Estate Plan

Estate planning is an essential process for anyone looking to secure their assets and protect their loved ones. One often overlooked aspect of estate planning is the prenuptial agreement, which is an invaluable tool for protecting individual assets and ensuring a smooth distribution of assets in the event of a divorce or separation. In this […]

Carrying Healthcare Documents and Communicating Your Wishes to Emergency Personnel

In the event of a medical emergency, it’s crucial to have your healthcare documents readily accessible and ensure that your treatment preferences are known to emergency personnel. We have put together this article to discuss the benefits of carrying your directives with you and offer tips on effectively communicating your wishes to emergency responders. The […]

WARNING: Your Tattoo Won’t Hold Up in Court!: The Importance of a Proper Estate Plan

In recent years, there has been a growing trend of people tattooing their medical wishes on their bodies, including “Do Not Resuscitate” (DNR) directives. While it might seem like a creative and potentially effective way to express one’s wishes, relying on a tattoo as a legally binding document is risky and could lead to confusion […]

Leaving Your Estate to Non-Family Members: Everything You Need to Know

Estate planning often revolves around leaving assets to family members, but what if you want to leave your estate to someone who isn’t related to you? Many people have close friends, caretakers, or even charitable organizations that hold a special place in their hearts. In this blog post, we will explore the essential considerations and […]