Many areas of the law are constantly changing based on a variety of factors. Estate planning is no exception, especially given that there are potential changes coming to the United States tax policy under the current administration. One of those potential changes is the elimination or restructuring of the estate…
The number of Americans choosing to cohabitate in lieu of marriage is steadily increasing. While nontraditional approaches to relationships are becoming more common, the importance of traditional measures related to comprehensive estate planning remain just as important. In fact, for couples that cohabitate without entering a traditional marriage, comprehensive estate…
Growing older and the inevitability of death are unpleasant topics for most people. Often equally unpleasant is the thought of being alive but being unable to make important decisions for yourself. Part of a comprehensive and effective estate planning strategy includes ensuring that you have planned for the possibility of…
Comprehensive estate planning is a responsible way to protect your assets. One of the primary ways you can utilize estate planning to protect your assets is by ensuring that your estate plan accurately reflects how you wish to have your assets distributed in the event of your death. Taking steps…
Most individuals look forward to retirement for many years. The chance to enjoy the hard work you have put forth throughout your lifetime is appealing, and being able to do so without being tied down by work or other responsibilities often sweetens the potential possibilities that await you in retirement.…
Creating an estate plan is an effective way to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes while minimizing hardships that could otherwise result for loved ones and friends. However, creating a comprehensive estate plan is often just the beginning and there are important reasons why you can…
The Durable Power of Attorney is a powerful estate planning tool that everyone should have. Properly drafted, a Durable Power of Attorney allows for the right person to be able to manage your affairs when you are physically or mentally unable to do so. However, a Durable Power of Attorney…
What’s In a Name Depends on Who You Are. It Could Be Hundreds of Millions According to the IRS There has been an ongoing battle in recent years between decedents’ estates and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). While it is only to be expected that the IRS attempt to…
Think about this, you were born to your mother and father. At a wee young age your mother and father separated and your mother raised you. Nothing unusual there. Say then your mother later married another man and he started to raise you as his own; while your stepfather may…