While you are alive and competent, you should plan for incapacity. It is an essential part of an estate plan and the estate planning process. When possible, court proceedings for guardianship and conservatorship should be avoided. Here is why Patty is single and...
An agent, sometimes called the attorney-in-fact, is authorized to act on behalf of someone else or on behalf of a legal entity. Sometimes agents are hired to represent a client in negotiating the terms of an agreement. An example might be a literary agent...
Being named a trustee in someone’s revocable trust is an honor and a privilege. With such privilege comes significant responsibility. It doesn’t matter if you are appointed as a trustee after death or at incapacity. Your job is nonetheless critical and must be taken...
Why should you have an estate plan? An estate plan can provide significant peace of mind by ensuring that your money and property are protected, plans are in place in the event you become ill, and your accounts and property pass down according to your wishes. What key...
3 Reasons to Avoid Probate When you die, under probate it’s likely your heirs will have to sign documents in order to receive their inheritance. This can happen if you own property in your name only and if you haven’t expressly designated a beneficiary. Some of those...
Wills and Trusts: Confused about the differences between a will and a trust? If so, you are not alone. Often people who don't understand use the terms interchangeably. But be clear, a will is not a trust. Having a basic understanding of these two important...
Preparing for Estate Planning. Estate Planning. How prepared are you for your future and the future of your loved ones? Sadly, most people are unprepared for the time when they may become incapacitated or die. There are many reasons for this lack of preparation. Some...
Should You Leave Your Timeshare in Your Trust? Timeshare in a trust. Do you own a timeshare? Over the past few decades owning a timeshare has become a popular investment. Whether you purchased it as a vehicle for a great family vacation, an occasional getaway, or to...
Pet Trusts. As with anything in life, sometimes things don’t work out as planned. So, my belief is to always have a Plan B. When you prepare accordingly, it’s more likely you will have a successful outcome. Here are three examples of creative planning by pet owners....