One of the great challenges of estate planning is that most of the decisions made will be carried out after a person is no longer alive. For some people, this means that they need not worry about estate planning because they will not be around to see how it…
No matter if you are in a second or subsequent marriage, individuals who have been previously married often face a number of unique issues that influence the estate planning process. As a result, it is critical to take these factors into consideration when performing estate planning. By following these…
There are a number of complex issues involving the creation and administration of a trust. One of these issues involves which state’s laws should apply to the trust’s administration. The best estate planning lawyers often discuss with clients the differences between available estate laws so the best possible results…
Transitioning to a nursing home or assisted living facility is a difficult period for most adults. A recent study conducted by AARP even reported that 9 out of 10 Americans prefer living in their own homes as long as possible rather than switching to a nursing home. The concept…
One of the most important goals in estate planning is making sure that your assets are properly passed on to your loved ones. While irrevocable trusts at first glance might seem like they involve too much control, when utilized in the correct manner, they can be a valuable tool…
The Supreme Court recently issued a decision in a North Carolina case, which will likely have a limited but substantial impact on estate planning and tax-related issues. The case in issue concerned North Carolina’s taxation of Kimberley Rice Kaestner’s 1992 Family Trust for more than $1.3 million between the…
An appellate court in the case of Gonzalez v. City National Bank recently affirmed a probate court’s order that denied a plaintiff’s request after the death of plaintiff’s daughter that the remainder of a special needs trust be distributed to the plaintiff rather than the Department of Health Care Services. …
Nobody likes talking about what will happen after their death. But it is a universal truth that every one of us will die at some time, which is why it is absolutely critical to create a funeral plan. One of the best ways to make sure that your loved ones…
For many individuals, retirement accounts are one of the largest assets that they have to pass on to loved ones throughout estate plan. Without the assistance of a knowledgeable estate planning professional, however, it is very common to make mistakes including with IRA’s. In the hopes of helping you…
There are a number of myths that continue about exactly who needs an estate plan. For example, couples without high value assets can still benefit from estate plans. Another common myth is that a person who does not have children has no need for estate planning. In reality, it…