In recent posts, we’ve discussed the many ways estate planning affects families. One topic that deserves special attention is inheriting a home. The United States is experiencing the largest transfer of generational wealth in history. Baby boomers are expected to pass down an estimated $84 trillion over the next several decades, with $18–19 trillion tied directly […]
Author Archives: Skvarna Law
26
Sep
Sep
When a Trustee Becomes a Burden: Knowing When to Fire a Trustee In recent posts, we’ve discussed the importance of creating a comprehensive estate plan that safeguards your legacy and protects your family. A key part of that plan often involves choosing a trustee. The title “trustee” implies trustworthiness, and for good reason. This role […]
18
Sep
Sep
You Cannot Afford to Make These Estate Planning Blunders Many people think a simple will covers all their future goals. In reality, a flawed estate plan can create just as many headaches, heartaches, and expenses as having no plan at all. Life changes, laws evolve, and even good intentions can fall short. Without proper updates, […]
12
Sep
Sep
Which one do you need? A Will or Trust? Every adult needs a will, a trust, or both. These essential estate planning control your legacy. Further, they make sure your loved ones are cared for. And, finally, they provide peace of mind that your wishes won’t be left to chance. A properly drafted trust can […]
05
Sep
Sep
3 Simple Ways to Avoid Probate Costs Probate is a word that makes many families nervous—and for good reason. When someone dies owning property in their sole name without a beneficiary, their loved ones must go through a court-supervised process to transfer that property. Known as probate, this process often brings delays, stress, and significant […]
22
Aug
Aug
What to Do When You Do Not Own What You Think You Own In recent posts, we’ve discussed the importance of having a clear estate plan to protect your assets and your family. One of the most frustrating and costly situations arises when someone believes they own property—only to learn later that they do not […]
Assets, Beneficiary, Estate Planning, Inheritance
Strengthen Your Estate Plan While Improving Your Golf Game
15
Aug
Aug
Golf and estate planning share one important truth: preparation and strategy determine success. While golf requires adjusting to changing conditions on the course, estate planning requires adjusting to life’s changes—marriage, children, retirement, or shifts in financial circumstances. Both benefit from having the right tools, a clear plan, and periodic review. In this post, we discuss […]
Assets, Estate Administration, Estate Planning, Heirs, Trusts
Why Your Child’s Trust Should Grow with Them
08
Aug
Aug
Trusts are powerful estate planning tools, especially when created to protect a child’s financial future. However, if you establish your child’s trust when they are five, that may not serve the same purpose—or offer the same protection—when they’re 25 or 45. Just as your child grows and changes over time, so too must the legal […]
01
Aug
Aug
Does Treating Your Children Fairly Mean Unequal Inheritances? When creating an estate plan, many parents aim to treat their children fairly. But fairness does not always mean equality—especially when each child has different needs, responsibilities, or life circumstances. In some families, the fairest approach may involve unequal inheritances. In this post, we examine the times when […]
25
Jul
Jul
Is an Income Tax Time Bomb Lurking in Your Estate Plan? The federal estate tax exemption has grown significantly—from $5 million in 2011 to nearly $14 million in 2025. As a result, far fewer families face federal estate tax issues today. But there’s another kind of tax concern that’s increasingly relevant: income tax basis planning. If […]