Although you may have taken the time to create well structed wills and trusts, there are some common challenges which may present themselves upon your passing. Disputes amongst beneficiaries can result in bitter family relations, costly court proceedings and financial devastation. The following are some proactive measures you can take to avoid common challenges and ensure your documents accomplish your intended goals. Treat children equally:  Certain family dynamics may have

It can be tempting to avoid the costs of creating an estate plan when your only significant asset is your home. After all, what’s the harm of simply putting your home in your child’s name to avoid probate and be done with it?   We hear this question more than you’d think at our office, and we almost always advise against it. The truth is, there are a number of reasons to keep your home in your own name, the biggest ones being property taxes and your child’s liabilities.   Oth

The statistics are rather alarming. In 2005, 50 percent of Americans had a will; today, only 32 percent of us have one. Meanwhile, only one in three Americans over the age of 55 has a durable power of attorney, and a mere 41 percent of this same demographic has advance health care directives. Why is this? According to statistics culled from a range of sources, Americans lack estate plans for the following reasons: 47 percent say “they haven’t gotten around to it” 29 percent t

For many families, planning for the future means more than just wills and trusts—it also involves preparing for the rising costs of long-term care. Medicaid, the government program designed to assist with healthcare costs for those with limited financial resources, plays a critical role in covering long-term care expenses. However, many individuals are surprised to learn that qualifying for Medicaid often requires careful estate planning. With Medicaid making headlines lately

Many people come into our office saying they “just need a simple will.” It’s a phrase we hear all the time—and we understand the intention. You want something straightforward, and easy to understand. Something that ensures your belongings go to the right people when you pass. But in today’s world, “simple” doesn’t always mean sufficient. In fact, in many cases, relying on a basic Will alone can lead to more confusion, cost, and conflict than you ever intended. Did you know yo