When we think about heirs fighting over assets, it is the big ticket items that typically come to mind, such as the family home, investments, bank accounts and the like. However, it is often items of sentimental value—a mother’s necklace, for example, or a father’s watch—that cause the most contention. This is particularly true in the case of blended families. Worse, battles over sentimental assets often lead to hard feelings that can last for years or even permanently sever

Second marriages can present unique challenges when it comes to estate planning, particularly if you or your new spouse have children from previous marriages. Let's take a look at some of the factors, tools, and strategies to consider when planning for a second marriage. Prenuptial Agreements You've been married before, so you're a little bit older and a whole lot wiser the second (or third) time around. However, this doesn't mean you should throw caution to the wind. While i

Here are some additional planning tips to bring you peace of mind in the new year. Review your asset allocation. The start of the new year is an excellent time to reassess your investment portfolio to make sure your asset allocation is where it should be to accomplish your investment goals. Additionally, a stock, mutual fund or other investment that out-performed the market two years ago may not have done as well in 2025. If so, take a long, hard look at it. Make a detailed m

Modern families come in all shapes and sizes - second marriages, stepchildren, unmarried life partners, and chosen families. But with more love comes more complexity, especially when it comes to estate planning. Without a solid plan in place, blended families can face unintended disinheritance, disputes, and financial hardships. If your family doesn’t fit the traditional mold, you need an estate plan that reflects your unique dynamics and protects everyone you care about. Wit