Unlike last wills and testaments, living wills do not pass assets and property after death. 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…
The federal estate tax exemption allowance appears to be under threat of being reduced, which may mean it is time to rethink your approach to passing wealth on to your heirs. Senate Democrats are proposing to lower the current estate…
How are special needs defined? The term special needs refer to those with learning difficulties, behavioral or emotional problems, or physical disabilities requiring specialized education. For example, individuals with autism, ADHD, Asperger syndrome, Down syndrome, dyscalculia, dyslexia, deafness, blindness, and…
It's unfortunate that seniors are often prime targets for financial abuse and scams. Sadly, the elderly are often taken advantage of by strangers — and sometimes even their own family members. That’s why it’s important that planning is in place…
Many years have been invested in developing and protecting your legacy. But have you thought about the impact it will have on family members who are in different stages of life after you are gone? It’s crucial that your loved…
If I need help paying my bills or speaking with my doctor, I have a hard time choosing which of my two children will act as my legal representative. Can't I just name them both? You can, but please don't.…
Planning for long-term care is imperative because nearly everyone will require it at some point in time. While we cannot predict the timing or level of care, we can take steps to prepare for an unexpected medical and financial crisis…
During probate, judicial officials, including probate judges, process the wills of the deceased. While state probate laws may vary, the general process is quite similar across the country. Probate is the process of proving wills for decedents’. A probate judge…
Planning for the estate of a special needs child presents unique challenges. Optimizing your estate to use, enhance, and enrich assets for your special needs child while maintaining their enrollment in public benefits programs requires careful planning. An estate planning…
In the legal process of probate, the will of a deceased person is authenticated, their assets are reviewed, debts and taxes are paid, and anything remaining is distributed to their heirs. After an asset-holder dies, the court will appoint a…