When you are married and implementing your estate plan, it’s a given that your spouse is included in your Will. But what happens to your estate plans if your marriage suffers a divorce?   It’s easy to neglect changing your estate planning documents in the midst of court filings, deadlines, and attorney meetings—but VERY important that you remember to do so! Failing to make changes to your Will after a divorce Read More

The word “probate” has the tendency to instill discomfort and even fear in the people it affects. However, entering into the probate process can have some very positive benefits for all involved. Ensuring this positive probate experience all boils down to how you prepare for it. Some things you can do to ensure a smooth probate process are: Cover key components in your Will such as care for any dependent Read More

Very simply put, someone is considered “intestate” when they pass away without a Will. Similarly, one can be considered “partially intestate” if they die with a Will that covers only portions of their assets. The implications of dying intestate can be far-reaching, and will most likely subject your estate to intestate succession. What is Intestate Succession?   Intestate succession is what happens when you die Read More

In the past, Trusts were seen as a tool only the wealthy needed to protect their investments, and assets, and to pass down wealth to their heirs. These days, however, younger generations are beginning to learn the benefits of establishing a Trust, regardless of the amount of assets they’ve accumulated. Here are just a few reasons why, at any age, establishing a trust is beneficial to you: Managing and Read More

Estate planning is often something people put off until later in life, but it’s important for anyone of any age to have an updated Will in place in the event of the unexpected. If you do have a Will in place, you’re ahead of the game, but mistakes in the preparation process could prove to be detrimental in the long run. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when drafting your Will: Doing it Yourself - your Read More

Both Wills and Trusts are extremely useful estate planning instruments that serve two different purposes, but work together to complete your estate planning. Wills and Trusts do share some commonalities. For instance they both allow you to name beneficiaries for property and appoint an executor. In this article we will briefly explore the differences between the two, and the purpose they serve for you: Read More

For a senior to claim Medicaid long term care, they must meet several eligibility requirements which includes a need for care with limited income and assets. The various limits differ according to states as well as your marital status. But there is still a way to qualify for Medicaid despite not meeting the income/asset requirements. This program is called the Medicaid “spend down.” There are two types of spend Read More

What is a guardian? A guardian is a person or agency that has been court appointed to manage someone’s affairs. When it comes to the elderly, this is mostly due to mental deterioration or physical incapacity. The guardian then assumes the rights of the incapacitated person and will be responsible for making life decisions on their behalf. A guardian can be held accountable for their actions by the court. How do Read More

There are plenty of great reasons to meet with an elder law attorney, whether you're planning in advance, you're going on behalf of a loved one, or you're hoping to address a specific issue. Make sure you're prepared for the appointment by drawing up a list of pressing questions. Take these key issues as examples. Reviewing your decision-making options. Because elders are more susceptible to conditions like Read More

If you're in the midst of building an estate plan, you may be wondering how to properly involve your family members and loved ones in the process. How do you broach the subject tactfully and respectfully? Pick the right time and setting. First, make sure you schedule a family meeting with the proper timing. You shouldn't bring up the subject of death too soon after major events like the death of a relative. You Read More