Author Archives: Skvarna Law

What is a Living Probate?

Living Probate Skvarna Law

When someone is unable to manage his or her own affairs – often due to illness or older age – family members may seek court intervention to appoint a conservator or guardian. The court-appointed individual makes financial decisions on behalf of the incapacitated person. The same person (or sometimes someone different, also appointed by the court) takes over control of everyday matters, including medical decisions. These living probate proceedings are public, time-consuming, and expensive.

Probate Pros & Cons

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PROBATE TEXT WORD CLOUD CONCEPT

It is essential to recognize that the probate system, originally designed to protect property when someone passes away, serves a valuable purpose. So, is there any redeeming value in probate? The answer is a resounding “Yes.” Let’s delve into the pros and cons of probate.

Celebrity Estates: Senator Dianne Feinstein

A photo of the bronze bust of Senator and former San Francisco mayor Diane Feinstein, with flowers, during her public lying in-state at San Francisco City Hall.

Although a large amount of her wealth came from her marriage to the late billionaire financier Richard C. Blum, Senator Feinstein was also successful in her own right. During their marriage, Feinstein and Blum established a marital trust that is now the subject of a fierce legal battle between Feinstein’s daughter and Blum’s three daughters. 

How to Modify an Irrevocable Trust

3D Isometric Flat Vector Conceptual Illustration of New Year 2024 Environmental Legislation, Pollution Prevention Laws

If you are not sure whether an irrevocable trust is still a good fit or if you wonder whether you can benefit more from your trust, we are happy to meet with you so we can analyze your current trust. Perhaps modifying or terminating your irrevocable trust is a good option. Making that determination simply requires a conversation about your goals and a review of the trust itself. Please call our office now to schedule time to review your current trust or discuss the potential benefits that a trust can provide to address your unique situation and goals.

Trust Protector: Do Not Leave Your Trust Unprotected 

AI generated illustration of a man in front of a dark background with a glowing key in his hands

People across the United States use Trust Protectors. Essentially, a trust protector is someone who serves as an appointed authority over a trust which will be in effect for a long period of time. Trust protectors ensure that trustees maintain the integrity of the trust. What’s more, they make solid distribution and investment decisions, and […]

Create an Updated Estate Plan for 2024

Construction site with orange text Update. White background.

For those who cherish experiences and the creation of lasting memories, it can be invaluable to incorporate clauses within your trust that allocate money specifically for ventures like traveling, exploring new places, or even family reunions and celebrations of important events. These provisions not only facilitate experiences but also foster a deeper connection, ensuring that your family bonds remain strong even in your absence. 

Conservatorship: Michael Oher Controversy Explained

American football player in helmet holding rugby ball

A conservatorship is a court-ordered arrangement that gives one person (or multiple people), called a conservator, legal authority to manage the affairs of another person, known as a conservatee or ward. Conservatees are often children. Incapacitated adults and those with developmental or age-related disabilities often enter conservatorship.

The Jimmy Buffet Estate: Celebrity Estates

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands - March 9, 2013: The sign for Jimmy Buffetts Margaritaville hotel and restaurant in Grand Cayman.

Jimmy Buffett died on September 1, 2023, at age 76 after a diagnosis of Merkel cell carcinoma (skin cancer) four years earlier. He was a renowned singer-songwriter, film producer, businessman, novelist, and philanthropist. Buffett released his first album, Down to Earth, in 1970. By 2023, his net worth was $1 billion. This blog discusses the Jimmy Buffet estate.