Many of us hesitate to change professional relationships, especially regarding legal matters. I often meet people who feel "tied" to their original estate planning attorney, even when that relationship no longer serves their needs.Read More
One of the most frequent questions I hear is, "Is my estate large enough to justify a living trust?" Behind this question often lies a deeper concern: "Am I making the right choice for my family's future?" Let me share something that might surprise you – the size of your estate is just one small...Read More
I often meet grandparents who want to financially support their grandchildren while ensuring their generosity doesn't inadvertently create complications. Whether considering college funding or creating a lasting financial legacy, strategic planning can help maximize your gift's impact.Read More
Understanding the tools available for managing your estate is crucial when planning for the future. Two common tools in estate planning are revocable and irrevocable trusts. Both types of trusts help individuals manage their assets during their lifetimes and provide for the distribution of these assets after death. However, each type of trust serves different...Read More
Regarding long-term care in a nursing home, Medicaid is often the primary payer for individuals who require such services. However, qualifying for Medicaid isn’t as simple as filling out an application. A crucial eligibility factor is the “Medicaid Lookback Period.” Specifically, Medicaid applicants for institutional care need to be aware of the five-year lookback period,...Read More
At our firm, we help guide clients through the complex legal process following a loved one’s death. One of the more common questions we receive concerns the grounds on which a will can be contested. Contesting a will is serious and often emotional, as it involves questioning the deceased’s final wishes. However, under certain circumstances,...Read More
When a loved one passes away, settling their estate can be complex, especially if you’re unfamiliar with their financial affairs. I often hear concerns from family members about missing assets or incomplete information. Let’s address these everyday worries and explore what happens in these situations. The Challenge of Incomplete Information It’s not uncommon for the...Read More
Imagine you’re at a family reunion, and your eccentric Uncle Bob starts discussing how he’s become a “Grantor.” Your cousin Sarah rolls her eyes, assuming it’s just another of Bob’s quirky hobbies. But little does she know that Uncle Bob might be the most intelligent person at the picnic table. I can tell you that...Read More
Regarding estate planning, one of the most essential tools available to individuals is a trust. Think of a trust as a box with an instruction manual. The instruction manual controls what’s in the box and where it goes at the time of your passing. But here’s the catch – if nothing is in the box,...Read More
As a grandparent, you’ve probably spent countless hours doting on your grandchildren, showering them with love, and creating precious memories. But have you considered how you can continue to support and protect them long after you’re gone? As an estate planning lawyer, I’ve seen firsthand how grandparents can play a crucial role in securing their...Read More