When you think about estate planning, you usually think about distributing physical assets like real estate, cash or heirlooms. In an increasingly digital and knowledge-based economy, it is essential not to overlook intellectual property when crafting your estate...
Estate Planning
Factors to consider when choosing a guardian for your children
Assets and finances take up a lot of focus when it comes to estate planning. While distributing assets among beneficiaries is a large part of the process, there is much more to estate planning. If you have young children, then your will can provide instructions for...
Estate planning instruments you can use to avoid probate
A will is one of the more popular estate planning methods, primarily because creating a last will and testament is relatively easy. What you may not realize, however, is that a will does not bypass the probate process. It almost guarantees it. Probate is the legal...
What positive traits should you look for in your executor?
Thinking about the end of your life and how your beneficiaries will deal with your loss may feel overwhelming or depressing at first. However, taking steps to plan for this time could help reduce the worry you feel. By looking for an executor who has positive traits...
3 reasons you might want a trust instead of a will
Some people think creating an estate plan is all about writing a will, but that is only partly true. You can now choose from several estate planning tools that help give you better control over your assets at any stage of life. For instance, instead of writing a will,...
Can I make a will if I am under guardianship?
Each person has needs based on their life situation, physical health and mental wellness. Sometimes, the court could deem an individual incapacitated, necessitating legal guardianship. Individuals under guardianship underwent standard procedures to determine if they...
5 essential documents for your estate plan
Establishing an estate plan is an essential task that protects your assets and carries out your wishes after your passing. Although this is important, many individuals overlook it because it is complex or they are uncomfortable discussing such topics. However, a...
What is intestacy?
When you die, you need to have some way to allow those left behind to take legal possession of your assets. Most people will create a will or estate plan to handle this task. However, it is also common for people not to plan ahead. If you die before you create a will...
Understanding the dangers of undue influence
As people age, it is normal for them to begin to take their estate plans more seriously. Many people involve their families in their estate planning process. Involving the family can help everyone understand what to expect when a loved one passes. If you have an aging...
2 Myths about second marriages and estate planning
Most people do not worry about their estate plans until they age. However, at this point, you may be in your second marriage, and you and your spouse may have children from previous marriages. This can make estate planning tricky because you want to leave assets for...
