Attorneys have long advised entire families with respect to their estate planning. Ethics require attorneys to maintain a duty of loyalty to each client they represent and fully advise their clients regarding the structures they are recommending. Sometimes even when the transaction works exactly as intended, lawyers get sued.
You have to be very aware of the potential ravages of the estate tax when you are looking forward toward the future. Everyone in the country has the federal estate tax to be concerned about, but you must also take into consideration anything that could happen on the state level. In addition to this, we … Read more
Many individuals think that if their estate is below a certain amount that they need not be concerned with Estate Planning. As this article demonstrates, because the Estate Tax evolves constantly, it’s important to talk with a professional to create a plan to accomplish your goals. Read on to learn more.
“Probate” is one of those words that we all have heard, yet few of us really know what it means. We know it has something to do with dying, but that’s about it. When an individual dies owning assets, there is a process to change the title from the (now deceased) owner, to the new … Read more
Facing difficulties in life sharpens our focus. When tragedy strikes, we recognize what’s important in our lives: Our family, our friends, and our values. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, the famous 19th century American poet, said “Into each life some rain must fall.” We have all had “rain” in our lives. Our tragedies typically are quite personal: the … Read more
As you plan your strategy for 2022, it’s important to consider gifting, including spousal gifts. Your spouse could double your ability to make gifts of “annual exclusions” without being considered to have made a gift for estate tax purposes. Read on to learn more.
What are the Odds your family will need estate planning? Well, anyone who will die someday needs to plan for that eventuality—that is everyone! In addition, anyone who will ever be disabled or incapacitated needs to plan for that eventuality, as well. Even for those in their 20s and 30s, the odds of at least … Read more
Since the dawn of time, pets have held an important place in our hearts and our homes. Ancient Egyptians used to mummify faithful pets and have them buried with themselves. This was a dubious honor for the pet. Even in modern America, people have attempted to take their pets with them. For example, Mary Murphy … Read more
As more and more individuals get comfortable in the digital world, Estate Planning has changed to address the collection and transfer of digital assets. The widespread use of a legacy contact allows owners of digital content to determine what will happen with it after they die. Read on to learn more.
In this modern era, traditional gender roles are fading fast. Gone are the days of Donna Reed and June Cleaver. However, gender still makes a difference. One of these ways is estate planning. But, why? Women continue to live longer than men do. In fact, according to MsMoney.com 75% of women will become widows at some point … Read more