In Part I of our Privacy Matters series, we discussed what happens to your privacy when a Will is admitted to probate. Because probate is a court proceeding, the Will and certain other information concerning the estate and the decedent’s family may become part of the public court record. For individuals who would prefer to…

When people think about estate planning, they generally focus on who will receive their assets and how those assets will be distributed. One consideration that is sometimes overlooked is privacy. A Will does not remain a private document after death. If a Will is admitted to probate, it is filed with the court and becomes…

Common Problems with Online Estate Plans: Documents May Not Comply with State Law Estate planning documents are governed by state law, and each state has its own requirements regarding execution. Something as simple as having the wrong number of witnesses, using an ineligible witness, or failing to follow your state’s signing requirements can create problems…

It has never been easier to create an estate plan. With a quick internet search, you’ll find countless websites promising that, after answering a handful of questions, you’ll have everything you need, including a will, power of attorney, health care proxy, and even a trust, in a matter of minutes. The process is appealing. It’s…

There’s no denying that owning a home today comes with its own unique set of rules. Between property taxes, competitive real estate markets, and sheer value your house isn’t just a place to live, it’s very likely your largest financial asset. Naturally, you want to make sure that asset, your home, is protected and that…

Older adults are increasingly targeted by sophisticated financial scams. Recent FBI data shows seniors suffered more than $7.7 billion in reported fraud losses, the highest total of any age group. Protecting a family legacy involves more than making sure you have estate planning documents in place. It also means reducing present day risk before fraud…

Most people think of estate planning as something that matters only after death. In reality, some of the most important protections are in place while you are still living, especially if illness or injury leaves you unable to manage your own affairs. A trust is a valuable part of that plan. By naming a successor…

If you have minor children, one of your biggest concerns is likely to make sure they are cared for if the unthinkable happens. You may have already taken an important step by naming a guardian in your Will, but that is only part of the plan. A Will can include trust provisions, but it still…