Can I disinherit my kids? Maybe. According to Tinsel Town, a parent can always disinherit their kids. But not so in the real world. In most instances, you can. However, that also depends on the state and the facts of your particular situation. Generally,...
To be valid and enforceable, a trust must be funded with assets of value, and it must have a purpose. In addition, it must have a trustee. The person who legally holds the assets. When you establish your trust, you are required to nominate your trustee. While not...
A common question often asked by people who want to hire an estate planning lawyer is, “How do I prepare for the first meeting?” Is the meeting in person? Is it virtual? Is it by phone? If it’s by phone, does the lawyer call me, or should I call them? What should I...
How to Choose a Lawyer? Choosing an estate planning lawyer to work with is a personal experience. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve hired them for a business issue, a family law matter, a personal injury concern, or an employment-related question; great care should be...
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...
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...
What is Capital Gains? This post will provide a Capital Gains 101 overview. There are many special rules that apply to how you acquire your capital assets, how long you hold them, and how different assets are treated. I am not a tax lawyer, CPA, or other tax...
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....