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…
Whether you are drafting your first estate plan or have one already in place, it's important to include a letter of instruction (LOI) in it. A letter of instruction can help your loved ones manage important information about you. A…
This is a question we hear all the time. Wouldn't it be enough to just download a will, do a transfer-on-death deed for my land, put my kids on my bank account, and be done with my estate planning? It’s…
There is a question we hear all the time: “Can’t I just get a will off the internet, do a transfer-on-death deed for my land, and put my kids on my bank account?” It’s just not a good idea. For…
Having an estate plan is an essential part of life for all ages, but the need grows stronger as you age. Many people avoid estate planning because they do not want to think about the end of life, failing health,…
When a family member has passed, the family occasionally ends up arguing over personal property. Arguments can take place over things like a coffee mug, a piece of jewelry, or a painting. These types of arguments can be eliminated by…
Most young adults don’t consider estate planning a priority. Young adults in their twenties and thirties often think they don't own enough to constitute an estate. However, an estate is the total of all you own – money, investments, real…
To protect our loved ones and our assets, estate planning is important to any individual regardless of orientation. In the LGBTQIA+ community, estate planning can legally protect against discrimination even if others are reluctant to recognize your relationship and your…
The World Health Organization (WHO) officially named the 2019 Coronavirus outbreak on February 11, 2020. The coronavirus disease 2019 shortly after became known by its abbreviation, CO for corona, VI for virus, D for disease, and 19 for the year…
The legally binding directive declaring who will receive your assets upon death is called a will, and a will is a significant element of a complete estate plan. If you die without one (intestate), the state will distribute your assets…