Legal Topics

Every person should have a valid will drafted to the person’s wishes.  The safest move is to work with an estate planning attorney, to ensure the will is valid, properly executed and protected from future legal challenges. Why It’s Critical to Have a Valid Will – Before It’s Too LateThe person who creates and signs a […]

Beneficiary designations bypass the probate process, and are instructions provided directly to a named individual immediately upon the owner’s death. Knowing how beneficiary designations work and how they can be used to assist (and at times to thwart) an overall estate plan is an important part of the process. Why Beneficiary Designations Matter in Estate […]

Living trusts today are the standard vehicle for building an estate plan and transferring assets to loved ones at death, as assets held by a living trust always avoid the probate process.  A last will and testament is a legal document that outlines your wishes at death; assets distributed through a will requires the filing […]

A last will and testament is a legal document that outlines your wishes at death.  A living will, or advance healthcare directive, details your preferences for medical treatment if you become incapacitated. What’s the Difference Between a Will and a Living Will? Understanding the distinction between a will and a living will is essential for […]

Living trusts today are the standard vehicle for building an estate plan and transferring assets to loved ones at death, as assets held by a living trust always avoid the probate process. Why “Avoiding Probate” Matters in Estate Planning If you’ve been exploring estate planning options, you’ve likely come across the phrase “avoid probate.” It’s […]

One of the most important estate planning issues for couples with young children is the of naming a suitable guardian for the children in the event of an unexpected tragedy.  Name of a guardian for children is contained in a properly drafted last will and testament. “Who would raise our children if something happened to […]