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 […]
What You Should Know When Leaving an Inheritance to a Child Struggling with Substance Abuse
I’ve seen firsthand how substance abuse can impact families, leaving parents heartbroken and unsure of how to protect their loved ones while preserving their legacy. In my experience, many parents want to leave an equal inheritance to all their children, but when one child is struggling with addiction, it can significantly complicate matters. In this […]
5 Things Every Young Family Should Consider For Their Estate Plan
I am married to my incredible wife and the father of two beautiful daughters. They are my world and I want to make sure they are protected should anything happen to me. I am certain that your family means the world to you as well. Here are five things every young family should consider for […]
Why You Should Take the Time to Create a Legal Plan Now
If you have a child with special needs, you may be tempted to assume that if something happens to you or your partner, your other children will take care of their sibling. However, it’s important to take the time now to create a legal plan for your child so that they are always protected no […]
How Often Do I Need to Update My Estate Plan?
Creating an estate plan feels like something you check off a to-do list. Once the task is complete, you can move on and forget about it. However, that is not the mentality you should take when drafting your final wishes. An estate plan should reflect your current circumstances and should be periodically reviewed and amended […]
The Dangers of DIY Planning—Especially When You Have a Child with Special Needs!
With today’s technology, access to information is literally in the palm of our hands. From your cell phone, you can download manuals to repair a washing machine that’s thirty years old or watch step-by-step video tutorials that will teach you how to do anything from knitting a sweater to playing an instrument without taking a […]
How to Properly Choose Beneficiaries
An essential part of estate planning is designating beneficiaries for your life insurance policy, 401(k), and other financial accounts. A beneficiary is a person who receives someone’s assets upon their death. There is no “correct choice” when choosing the beneficiaries who will inherit from you. It’s a personal decision. What must be handled “properly” however […]
The Elements of a Valid Trust
When creating a trust, it is important to understand the specific roles involved. The grantor is the person who establishes a trust. The designated beneficiary is the person who receives the assets held in trust when the grantor dies. Probate is unnecessary because trust property passes outside the Last Will and Testament or Intestacy law. […]
TOD Beneficiary: What You Should Know
Your named beneficiaries will likely have to go through probate to receive your real property after your death if it is only in your name and not held in trust. Although transferring property into trust can ensure your family does not have to wait for a judge to validate your will before distributing your assets, […]