Complex probate processes can be costly and take years to finalize, which is why many individuals retain an estate planning attorney to minimize probate proceedings.
Category Archives: Estate Planning
24
Mar
Mar
Although gifts made within three years of your death are generally includible in your estate, an exception exists if a gift tax return was not required to be filed because the value of the gift was less than the annual exclusion amount. Transfers relating to life insurance policies, however, are an exception to this exception.
17
Mar
Mar
A last will and testament provides instructions about who should receive a person’s money and property when they die.
03
Mar
Mar
Although starting a business is a significant achievement, small business owners cannot coast on past accomplishments. You must look to the future and plan next steps.
27
Feb
Feb
Elder law lawyers may also focus on representing individuals with special needs and their families throughout the process, including attending hearings and communicating with the court. Navigating the legal process can be complex and vary by state. An elder law, disability, or special needs attorney will take all necessary steps and meet all deadlines throughout the legal process.
10
Feb
Feb
Do you still own the same property or have the same account balances as when your plan was first created? What will the balances be like at your death?
03
Feb
Feb
Parents of a special needs child could purchase life insurance for a child to benefit family caregivers.
27
Jan
Jan
Unlike a will, a trust will help keep your estate from going through an expensive, time-consuming, and public probate process. If you set up a trust, with trustees, you still create a will, but it becomes a pour-over will, which moves (pours) your assets into your trust.
13
Jan
Jan
Although these two types of law differ and apply to varying stages in life, many handle them simultaneously. This is because many people wait till later in life to start their estate planning process.
06
Jan
Jan
In addition to asset distribution, your executor makes a public notice of your death, files your final taxes, and records your will in probate court.