Blog
Estate Planning when you Live in Two States
Many people choose to live in one state for part of the year and in a different state for the other part of the year. When it comes to estate planning, this can cause some confusion. The general rule is that the state of your “legal residence” controls. Your legal residence is the state that…
Credit Shelter Trusts
Many people are surprised to learn that there are a variety of different types of trusts that can be used in estate planning. One type of trust is called the “Credit Shelter Trust,” which is also sometimes referred to as a bypass or family trust. This type of trust permits two parties (typically spouses) to…
What Should I do with an Inherited IRA?
If you have inherited an IRA from a loved one, there are several options available for how to handle it. However, the rules governing inherited IRAs can be complicated, so it is important to obtain professional advice on what option would be most beneficial to you. It is important that you do not lose the…
How to Prevent Financial Abuse of Senior Citizens
Because many senior citizens are particularly reliant on others, they are vulnerable to becoming the victim of financial abuse and scams. If you suspect a relative, caregiver or third-party of taking advantage of your loved one, it is important to contact one of our experienced elder law attorneys for assistance. Below are a few tips…
A Short Estate Planning Checklist
Estate planning can seem overwhelming to many people and they don’t know where to begin. While there are many decisions to be made and numerous factors that must be considered, below is a simple checklist of four items that you should look into immediately: Create an estate plan. Although this can include several tasks, it…
Essential Legal Documents for Senior Citizen
If you or a loved one are approaching your “golden years,” there are certain legal documents that should be created and signed as soon as possible. In order for another party to have the authority to discuss your medical treatment with health care providers, you must provide them the legal power to do so. Otherwise,…
Getting Married? Time to Discuss Finances!
If you are engaged, you are probably making a wide variety of plans for your future. Many couples spend considerable time planning their wedding, but they do not plan for how to combine their financial lives. Before you say “I do,” below are several issues you should discuss with your future spouse: If you have…
How Technology Impacts Your Estate Plan
It seems everyone is attached to their smartphone, iPad or iPod these days. As a result, these devices can play an important part in your estate plan, especially if you store personal and financial information online. What does this all mean? Your online data can include significant assets that should be included in your estate…
Events that Motivate Us to Create an Estate Plan
It is common for people to procrastinate in creating their estate plan. Nobody likes to think about dying or how their family will move forward without them. At the same time, most people feel guilty if they don’t have an estate plan in place. Over our years as estate planning attorneys, we have seen certain…
Do You want to Protect the Environment when you Die?
If you have spent your life recycling, growing your own food, composting, and other actions that protect the environment, you may want to consider how you can protect the earth when you die. Funeral home owners and cemeteries are offering eco-friendly options for those that want a sustainable alternative. The “green” movement is gaining popularity…