Elder law and estate planning are often used interchangeably; however, there are significant differences between the two. While some overlap exists between the two, learning and implementing strategies from both law practice types is crucial to prepare for successful aging…
A good estate planning attorney will assist you in creating a plan that minimizes or avoid probate. Probate proceedings are part of the public record and can be very time-consuming and expensive. However, in nearly every case, some probate is…
In most families, sibling rivalry is inevitable. Depending on your family members and the dynamic between them, old rivalries from the past can become more significant when a parent passes. Adult children who are emotionally upset and in the unfamiliar territory…
Everyone who wants to protect themselves and their families needs an estate plan. Making sound decisions regarding finances and healthcare can become challenging as you age due to diminished mental capacity or declining health. Putting these five must-have legal documents in…
The loss of a close relative is one of life's most difficult experiences. In addition to the emotional aspect of loss, there is the stress of handling the deceased person’s estate and affairs. This part can be especially overwhelming. The process…
It might seem confusing to think about estate planning vs. elder law as you begin to plan your future, both financially and in terms of health care. Estate planning and elder law also have some similarities. Even though these two types…
In a will, you specify who will inherit your assets and property after your death, and a properly executed will is legally binding. Your will names a personal representative (executor) who will carry out your directives. In addition to asset distribution,…
As federal estate tax laws, gifts, and GST exemptions fluctuate, it may be necessary to update your estate plan annually. Since 2018, federal tax assessment on estates above $11.7 million, indexed for inflation every year, will default back to pre-2018 exemption…
Estate planning is often viewed as a once-off task that can be filed away once completed. However, without being aware of the potential impact, people will make gifts during their lifetime or change listed beneficiaries on accounts which can have enormous…
When you die, your assets and property are not distributed according to your living will. Instead, it is a mechanism to communicate to your family and doctors how you want medical care conducted when you aren't able. Your living will is…