One of the most common questions we hear from clients is: “Why is my trust so long?” It’s a fair question. At first glance, a shorter trust might seem more appealing—easier to read and less intimidating. But in estate planning, brevity often comes at a cost. Like any legal document, a trust is only as … Read more
You’ve worked hard. You’ve saved diligently. You’ve paid into Social Security and earned your Medicare benefits. So when you need long-term care, you should be covered—right? Unfortunately, not entirely. While Medicare covers some medical expenses, it typically doesn’t pay for long-term custodial care—the care that helps with daily living activities like bathing, dressing, cooking, or … Read more
Your child is turning 18. On the outside, not much has changed—they still mix lights and darks in the wash or forget their bag on the roof of the car. But legally, everything is different. At 18, your child is now considered an adult in the eyes of the law. And with that legal adulthood … Read more
As I recently walked through the Oklahoma City National Memorial, the weight of history felt especially profound as today marks the 30th anniversary of the bombing. Standing where Fifth Street once ran, looking at the Reflecting Pool mirroring the black granite Gates of Time, I was struck by how an ordinary spring morning – April … Read more
Far too many people assume that a simple will is the estate planning document to use unless you’re a multimillionaire. In reality, this is probably the most widely embraced myth in our field. Granted, a will can suffice when the situation is extremely simple and straightforward. However, there are many different types of trusts, and … Read more
Many people focus on wills and trusts but overlook the importance of planning for potential incapacity. Without the right incapacity planning documents in place, courts may step in to make decisions that could conflict with your personal values and long-term wishes. Why Incapacity Planning Matters Unexpected medical conditions, accidents, or cognitive decline can leave you … Read more
For many years Estate Planning attorneys touted irrevocable trusts as an immutable way to set an estate plan in stone. As more and more states have adopted the Uniform Trust Code that has changed. Provisions of the Uniform Trust Code allow for modification of an otherwise irrevocable trust which has altered the landscape of Estate Planning. Irrevocable Trusts have long been an effective, albeit static, estate planning tool, with the ability to alter irrevocable trusts, they provide more flexibility and opportunity than ever. Read on to learn more.
Inheritance planning involves more than distributing assets. It’s about making sure your wishes are followed, your loved ones are cared for, and conflicts are minimized. Without careful planning, your estate could face delays or unintended consequences. Addressing details like naming contingency beneficiaries, selecting the right trustee or executor, and including supplemental documents helps create a … Read more
For many years Estate Planning attorneys touted irrevocable trusts as an immutable way to set an estate plan in stone. As more and more states have adopted the Uniform Trust Code that has changed. Provisions of the Uniform Trust Code allow for modification of an otherwise irrevocable trust which has altered the landscape of Estate Planning. Irrevocable Trusts have long been an effective, albeit static, estate planning tool, with the ability to alter irrevocable trusts, they provide more flexibility and opportunity than ever. Read on to learn more.
When Sam and Laura welcomed their daughter Ella into the world, they were overjoyed. Like many new parents, they proudly shared photos and started saving for her future education. However, as time passed, they noticed Ella was struggling with speech, engaging in repetitive behaviors, and reacting unusually to sensory stimuli. By the time she turned … Read more