Child custody cases can be financially and emotionally draining for all parties involved, especially the children. In some cases, when parents can’t agree to a joint custody arrangement, the court may order a forensic custody evaluation to help determine what’s…
An estate tax is imposed in the US on the transfer of assets from a deceased person's estate to heirs or beneficiaries. An estate tax is not the same as an inheritance tax. It’s a tax on the total value…
Almost everyone has heard about the probate process, which is carried out in probate court after someone passes away. Unfortunately, fewer people know that it can be a long and complicated process. It can sometimes take months, or even years,…
Beneficiaries are common designations in retirement accounts, wills, and trusts, so chances are you have one. A beneficiary is an individual (or legal entity) to receive the proceeds from a financial product or vehicle when the owner passes away. What…
In a child custody case, the primary goal is to determine what’s in the best interests of the child or children. The court bases its decision on: Physical, emotional, and psychological needs The child’s preference, depending on their age The…
Even in cases of inheritance, American families often treat stepchildren the same as biological children. This is particularly true where stepchildren are part of a blended family from an early age. Biological siblings may have different feelings about a stepchild…
Millions of Americans receive comprehensive health coverage and financial protection through Medicaid, a US federal and state public health insurance program. The program helps low-income families, individuals, and people with disabilities receive adequate health care and provides nursing home or…
When you lose a spouse or long-time partner, you have a hard time focusing on anything else but the loss you are grieving. However, it is crucial to understand there are important and timely decisions you need to make regarding…
New partnerships are being formed by older Americans experiencing widowhood or divorce at record rates. The US Census Bureau reports that more than half of all older adults have only married once, opting to stay legally single in their future relationships. Cohabitating…
Domestic violence (DV), also domestic abuse, encompasses violent acts or threats directed between people in a close familial or social relationship. A couple may be dating, living together, or married. Two people may share a child or be family members. Those…